The role of an emerging wetland system in nutrient assimilation

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the role of an emerging wetland system in nutrient assimilation as well as the improvement of water quality. The extent of the wetland was assessed over a period of eight years using Google Earth imagery, and it was noted that permanent ponding developed over the course of the eight years. Water samples were collected upstream of the wetland, in the west and east ponds of the wetland and downstream. The chemical water quality assessment indicated that the wetland may play a role in the assimilation of phosphate. However, it was a source of sulphates to the downstream environment. Toxic effects of water quality were noted on both Daphnia magna and Selenastrum capricornutum (renamed Raphidocelis subcapitata). However, the wetland remains a functional part of the ecosystem, providing food sources and habitats for birds, insects, molluscs, amphibians, fish and various plant matter.