Publication Type: | Journal Article |
Year of Publication: | 2004 |
Authors: | H. Salvado, Palomo, A., Mas, M., Puigagut, J., Gracia, M. D. |
Journal: | Water Research |
Volume: | 38 |
Pagination: | 2571-2578 |
Accession Number: | WOS:000222001800011 |
Keywords: | Dexiotricha granulosa |
Abstract: | Nematode diversity and dynamics of a full-scale rotating biological contactor plant (RBC) has been studied. Analysis of biofilm composition showed a well-established zoning of microfauna among the three RBC sections analysed. Nematodes appeared to be the dominant group within the larger microfauna populations with average abundances between 200 and 300 ind/mg or 8000 and 17 000 ind/cm(2). The most abundant nematode species were Diplogasteritus nudicapitatus and Paroigolaimella coprophages and, to a lesser extent, Paroigolaimella bernensis and Steinernema intermedia. The relationship between nematodes and filamentous bacteria (specifically the genus Beggiatoa) was the most significant biotic relationship found, and to a lesser extent, nematodes with ciliates. The relationship between the abundance of nematode species and the physical-chemical variables suggests that nematodes may be good indicators of low pollutant load levels in the entry of the RBC system. Finally, the results indicate that nematodes may have a relevant role for a good biofilm development. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. |
URL: | <Go to ISI>://WOS:000222001800011 |