Dissolved Oxygen (DO) is essential for the survival of most aquatic organisms, which rely on oxygen for respiration, just as terrestrial animals do. Insufficient DO can lead to stress, reduced growth, reproductive issues, and even death.
High levels of DO generally indicate good water quality, while low levels can signal pollution or other environmental stressors.
DO supports the breakdown of organic matter through aerobic decomposition, which is carried out by bacteria and other microorganisms. This process helps recycle nutrients and maintain ecological balance.
The solubility of oxygen in water is inversely related to temperature; warmer water holds less oxygen than cooler water. Therefore, seasonal temperature changes can affect DO levels, impacting aquatic life, especially in warmer months or in watercourses affected by thermal pollution.
Pollutants, such as organic waste (e.g., sewage, agricultural runoff), can lead to increased biochemical oxygen demand (BOD). Microorganisms decompose organic matter, consuming oxygen in the process. High BOD can deplete DO levels, leading to hypoxic (low oxygen) or anoxic (no oxygen) conditions, detrimental to aquatic life.
DO results in this database usually come from the use of a Hach meter & DO probe.