An in situ test to explore the responses of Scenedesmus acutus and Lepocinclis acus as indicators of the changes in water quality in lowland streams

This bioassay was designed with the aim of exploring the responses of two wild planktonic microalgae exposed in situ (72 h) as indicators of the changes in water quality. Monocultures of both strains within dialysis membrane bags were placed at two sites in a small lowland stream. Site 1 is located at a suburban area with low horticultural activity and Site 2 is impacted by toxic industrial discharges and urban land use.There was a decrease in population growth of both species at Site 2 compared with Site 1. The comparison of the algae exposed in situ with the normal specimens cultured at the laboratory indicated a significant increase in the cellular volume for both species at both sites. Abnormal shape was recorded at both sites, the percentage being significantly greater for Scenedesmus acutus at Site 2. Significant changes in pyrenoids size were observed in S. acutus and in the percentage of fragmented nuclei in Lepocinclis acus. Also in the latter abnormal paramylon grains were observed. These responses were accentuated at Site 2.This bioassay was sensitive, short term, low cost, and therefore is a suitable tool to contribute with the monitoring and ecological risk assessment of lowland streams.

► Nucleus alteration, abnormal shapes, and cell volume were greater at the most disturbed Site 2.
► There was a decrease in population growth of both species at Site 2 compared to Site 1.
► The morphological changes differentiated the cultures in the laboratory from those in the stream.
► Significant differences in morphologic features were registered among the two sites in the stream.