9.16B - **Biology and Higher Only* Indicator Species and Assessing Pollution Flashcards
What is an indicator species?
An indicator species is a species used to assess the pollution levels in an area.
What species indicate polluted water?
Polluted water is often identified by the presence of bloodworms or sludgeworms (often called ‘sewage worms’ for this reason).
What species indicate clean water?
Clean water often harbours freshwater shrimps and stonefly.
What indicates air quality?
Air quality can be indicated by a number of species of lichen.
How does sulfur dioxide affect lichen?
In areas where the air is heavily polluted with sulfur dioxide, lichen is less likely to be found.
What indicates clean air?
Clean air often provides an ideal environment for lichens, with a rich variety of species being found in clean air.
What is the relationship between rose blackspot fungus and pollution?
The rose blackspot fungus is more likely to be found in less polluted areas, as sulfur dioxide protects plants from certain fungi.
