What does a biological assessment in surface water quality monitoring involve?

A biological assessment in surface water quality monitoring focuses on evaluating the health of aquatic ecosystems. This involves examining the composition, abundance, and diversity of aquatic organisms, such as fish, macroinvertebrates, and algae, to understand how ecosystems function and how they might be affected by various environmental factors. By assessing the biological community, scientists can gain insights into the overall health of the waterway, the presence of pollutants, and the effectiveness of any conservation efforts. This holistic approach provides critical information that complements chemical and physical assessments, offering a more comprehensive view of water quality and ecosystem health.