Impact of the stormwater on ecology of urban streams (2024-2025)

It is well known that stormwater affects the quality of urban streams. However, there is still a lack of knowledge regarding to which extent stormwater can alter stream ecology. Environmental DNA (eDNA) is a novel and valuable tool in for biodiversity monitoring and detection of rare species.

This project aims to assess the potential impact of urban pressures, such as stormwater discharges, on the ecology of receiving water bodies by using eDNA analysis. Specifically, the objective is to evaluate how urbanization and stormwater runoff influence the species richness and community composition of:

1. Macroinvertebrates
2. Diatoms
3. Mussels, amphibians, and fishes

This project is funded by the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency.

And in collaboration with Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and MIX Research Sweden.

• Ishi Buffam, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences External link, opens in new window.
• MIX Research Sweden External link, opens in new window.