A rock/biological system to increase biodiversity and self-purification of surface waters, combined with preventive monitoring of algal blooms (HydroBiom)

Summary

Achieving the objectives of the Hydrostrateg II programme, i.e., improving the well-being of the hydrosphere in Poland, requires actions in two areas: monitoring the current state and undertaking effective remedial efforts. The "HydroBiom" project combines both of these actions. Remedial efforts will aim at restoring the natural state of surface waters by enriching their biodiversity in terms of basic aquatic organisms. The focus will be on algae, which are pioneering organisms able to grow and develop under extreme habitat conditions. The project will exploit the properties of epilithic algae, which form rich communities (biological mats) that adhere tightly to the surface of rocks. The monitoring work to be carried out by the AGH University will focus on developing an innovative method for rapid assessment of the status of algae populations, with particular emphasis on remote detection of the occurrence of "golden algae" in quantities that threaten the environment. A measuring buoy will be constructed and equipped with sensors to measure the physical and biochemical parameters of the water in real-time. The system will be equipped with wireless communication, allowing remote reading of data and warning of the risk of blooms. Spółka Restrukturyzacji Kopalń, SRK (Mine Restructuring Company) – a member of the consortium – will provide wide and safe access to post-mining watercourses, i.e., places most at risk of biodegradation, and at the same time enable rapid testing of design solutions before their large-scale application. The task of the fourth consortium member – Centrum Badawczo-Produkcyjne "Alcor" (Research and Development Center "Alcor") – will be to transfer the research results to real conditions and to adapt them for other recipients. The possibility of monitoring and evaluating the effects of the remedial measures taken during the project implementation will create a synergy effect and significantly shorten the time needed to implement the developed technologies.

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