Differences in element accumulation in two groups of macrozoobenthos in the Javorinka River: Comparative analysis of two sites

Abstract

This study focused on concentration of elements (P, S, Cl, K, Ca, Cr, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Rb, Se, Sr, Mo, Ba, Pb) in the bodies of two species and functional feeding groups (Scrapes - Ephemeroptera and predators - Plecoptera) of water insects collected in the Javorinka stream (Slovakia). The primary goal was to determinate differences between the two sides of the stream downstream of Javorinka. L1 is situated near Tatranská Javorina and L2 at the Polish border in Podspády. We did not find significant differences between sites in the accumulation of most elements. Ephemeroptera accumulate significantly more Fe and Cu at L2, while Plecoptera accumulate significantly more Fe and Mn at L2 and more Pb on the L1 side. Synergy of some elements describe significant accumulation of Cl with Pb against Fe, Zn with Cr that show more accumulation of Cl and Pb on L2 side and Fe with Cr on L1 side. We can assume that lead, due to its weight, is more prevalent in L1 and does not washout downstream. Conversely, copper and iron, as lighter elements compared to lead, can be found downstream.