Not Only Diatoms

Other Algae

Algae are a vital part of the aquatic ecosystem, providing food and shelter for other organisms.  They play a crucial role in the ability of an aquatic ecosystem to absorb nutrients and heavy metals, even if in some cases they cause a deterioration in water quality themselves. Blue-green algae blooms are not uncommon in Australia and frequently produce problems in water use. 

DIATOMA has the ability to undertake Research Programs on Australian Freshwater Algae other than Diatoms.

Birds

Waterbirds are a logical element of an aquatic ecosystem to monitor as they are highly visible, easily censused and reflective of water quality, invertebrate assemblages, water depth and flooding stage. 

DIATOMA undertakes waterbird monitoring research on Lake Cowal, N.S.W. and has the capacity to undertake similar biomonitoring work throughout Australia.

Water Quality

Water quality is highly variable from place to place and from time to time, even within a particular river system. It is dependent on many factors, both natural and as a consequence of human activities. Many factors are involved in Water Quality, particularly salinity, turbidity and nutrients. Other aspects of quality include temperature, dissolved gases, trace elements, pH, colour, silica. Whilst water quality can be considered purely in terms of its chemistry and biology, its real significance is in terms of the uses to which the water is put. 

DIATOMA is able to conduct field analyses of physico-chemical parameters as well as nutrients levels and elemental analyses in the laboratory (not NATA accredited).