Envi Ia

Map of Trinidad
Key
* Location Site
Map 1 showing the location of the Caroni swamps where all 4 sites were located
Problem Statement
The water quality of 4 different sites in the Caroni Swamp was assessed based on their varying influence
of water quality using the 5 parameters, pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen, phosphates and nitrates.
Purpose of Project
Wetlands are indeed a critical part of the natural environment, they reduce the impacts of floods,
absorb pollutants and aid in the cycling of nutrients. They provide habitat for a large diversity of
organisms and supports plants and animals that are found nowhere else for example the National Bird
of Trinidad the Scarlet Ibis. Wetlands also provide for industry as the Caroni Swamp is very important
holds for a tourist attraction in Trinidad and Tobago. Hence the purpose of this project is to assess the
water quality to see how the human interaction affects biodiversity within the given areas. The water
parameters that will be tested to assess the water quality are phosphates and nitrates concentration,
dissolved oxygen, temperature and pH.
Method of Data Collection
For this study, 4 different areas in the Caroni Swamp with varying amounts of human influence
were visited. At the sites an informal survey was done on the visual pollution seen as well as if there
were any sort of human alternation done to the environment example the building of infrastructures.
These were done to determine the anthropogenic impacts on the environment. At the sites the
temperature was taken with a thermometer and the dissolved oxygen was taken using a calibrated
Milwaukee. The tests were repeated 3 times in order to get a more accurate result from an average.
Water samples were then collected using a water bottle in which the bottle was placed
horizontally in the water with half the bottle in the water and half above the water. This was done so
that the water to enter uniformly. The bottle was capped and labelled to be taken to the lab for testing.
At the lab, tests were carried out in order to obtain the remaining 3 parameters of water quality
i.e. tests for nitrates, phosphates and pH. The tests were carried out using various solution according to
the parameter being tested and then being compared to a colour chart to derive the results. Results
were also taken three times to obtain a more accurate reading.
Literature Review
Biodiversity is the variety of organisms in an ecosystem, biome or an entire planet. A diverse

ecosystem means that the environment is stable i.e. the ecosystem can adapt and survive during or
after a disaster. To make an ecosystem stable there must be an equal and vast number of species i.e. the
more diverse the organisms in an ecosystem the more stable it is. As stated in the purpose of the project
swamps provide services for both human and habitats for animals and plants. A rich biodiversity of the
swamp ecosystem helps preservers its stability and integrity.
The four sites visited were all located at the Caroni Swamp the second largest mangrove
wetland in Trinidad and Tobago. It is located on the west coast of Trinidad, south of Port of Spain and
northwest of Chaguanas. The Caroni Swamp is an estuarine system comprising 5,611 hectares of
mangrove forest and herbaceous marsh, interrupted by numerous channels, and brackish and saline
lagoons, and with extensive intertidal mudflats on the seaward side. The Caroni Swamp also has a wide
biodiversity with various species of birds and aquatic organisms to reptiles, amphibians and small
mammals.
Site A which is at the boarding dock in which the boats meet for the tours of the Caroni Swamp.
This site has a lot of human influence for example infrastructures were put in place example bathrooms,
Gabion baskets etc. People also gather at the area for recreational purposes like fishing. Site B which is a
little more inland of the Swamp has less human interaction than Site A as it is more inland the swamp.
At this site more mangroves are present as well other species of birds and crabs are being introduced.
This area is generally a pathway to reach the more main areas of the swamp. Site C is at a junction
between the Caroni Swamp and the Caroni River. This site is relatively diverse and similar to site B but
less human interaction present as it in more inland the swamp. Site D which was the site furthest in the
Swamp has the least human interaction and the largest body of water. This area’s water is brackish as it
is closest to the sea as compared to the other sites. This area is the main spot for the National Bird of
Trinidad the Scarlet Ibis and is home to many other organisms.
Organisms tend to live in an environment which is more suitable for their needs i.e. adequate
both abiotic and biotic factors. Abiotic factors are the non-living chemical and physical parts of the
environment. They can determine which species of organisms will survive in a given environment. Water
is one of the abiotic factors in an ecosystem. Man’s influence on the water quality can impact the entire
ecosystem and it is therefore important to investigate the link between mans impact and how the
ecosystem is affected in order to find solutions to the problems arose. The water quality of an
ecosystem should meet that of the standards of the World Health Organization (WHO) as listed in the
following table.
Table 1 showing the standards of water quality by WHO
Parameter/Substance WHO (Pollutants Level)
Nitrates 0.5 to 2.0 mg/L

Phosphates 0.005 to 0.1 mg/L
Dissolved Oxygen 5.0 to 9.0 mg/L
Temperature Varies depending on species present (24-28C)
pH 6.0 to 8.5
Nitrates
Nitrates are natural nutrients, in excess however they become nutrient pollutants leading to the
excessive growth of algae which restricts light from penetrating the water to be able to reach the
organisms beneath the bloom. The reason there being an increase in algae with an excessive amount of
nitrates is that algae converts nitrogen into the nitrates and with and excess of nitrogen or nitrates the
algae flourishes.
Phosphates
Phosphorus is needed in small quantities for plant growth and metabolic reaction in both animal and
plant life in aquatic freshwater organisms. It is a natural nutrient and it is the natural nutrient that is in
the shortest supply in a freshwater ecosystem. A small amount can lead to a large significant plant
growth and therefore subsequently affecting the ecosystem as an entire unit.
Dissolved Oxygen
Dissolved oxygen is the amount of free dissolved oxygen present in water. It is the oxygen needed for
organisms who require oxygen for respiration and furthermore metabolic processes to survive. When
there is ice present or a waterfall or dam nearby affecting the dissolved oxygen concentration this can
cause deaths. One disease associated with dissolved oxygen is known as gas bubble disease can cause
many deaths within the fish population. Excessive nutrient pollution can result in a low dissolved oxygen
because of eutrophication.
Temperature
Temperature is the measure of the intensity of heat present in a substance or object (how hot or cold an
object is). Temperature can affect metabolic and the biological activity of aquatic organisms. Some
aquatic plants can survive in cold climates, but most prefer to flourish in warmer temperatures. High
temperatures can increase the solubility of toxic substances in the water which is proven to be very
dangerous to both the animal and plant life in the ecosystem as it can lead to an algae bloom. A rise in
temperatures can increase the rate of photosynthesis as well as respiration in plants
Ph
pH is a very important parameter as it is the measure if how acid or alkaline the water is. The pH can the
aquatic organisms as it affects both their metabolic rate as well as their biological activity. The pH can
affect biological activities such as hatching of some species and survival rates. The pH can also affect the
enzyme activity within an organism, if the pH condition is not suitable, making it difficult for an
organism’s metabolic activity to function at its best. The pH the water can be influenced by Acid rain.
Presentation of Data
Temperature
Temperature(°C)
29
28.5
28
27.5
27
26.5
26
Site A Site B Site C Site D
Temperature(°C)
Graph 1 showing the average temperature obtained at each site
The graph shows that Site A had the highest average temperature obtained at 29C. Site B and C both
had an average temperature of 27.3C which was the lowest temperature obtained and Site D had an
average temperature of 27.7C
pH
pH
pH
Site D
Site C
Site B
Site A
7 7.1 7.2 7.3 7.4 7.5 7.6 7.7
Graph 2 showing the pH obtained at each site
Graph 2 shows that Sites C and D both had the highest pH obtained at 7.6 followed by Site A with the
second highest pH at 7.5. Site B had the lowest pH at 7.2, which was .4 lower than the highest pH
obtained.
Dissolved Oxygen
Dissolved oxygen concentration (mg/L)

7
0
Dissolved oxygen concentration (mg/L)
Graph 3 showing the dissolved oxygen concentration obtained at each site
The graph shows that Site A had the highest dissolved oxygen concentration at 5.8 mg/. From Site A to B
there was a drastic decrease in the concentration from 5.8 mg/L to 2.7 mg/L. There was an increase by
2.0 mg/L from Site B to Site C. From Sites C to D there was a slight decrease in the concentration of
dissolved oxygen from 4.7 mg/L to 4.2 mg/L.
Nitrates
Nitrates concentration (mg/L)

3.5
2.5
1.5
0.5
0
Nitrates concentration (mg/L)
Graph 4 showing the nitrates concentration at each site
Graph 4 shows that Site A and B both had a nitrate concentration of 1.7 mg/L. From Site B to C there
was a steep increase in the concentration from 1.7 mg/L to 3.3 mg/L. From Site C to Site D the
concentration decreased drastically back to 1.7 mg/L.
Phosphates
Phosphates concentration (mg/L)

0.45
0.4
0.35
0.3
0.25
0.2
0.15
0.1
0.05
0
Phosphates concentration (mg/L)
Graph 5 showing the phosphate concentration at each site
The graph above shows that Site C had the highest phosphate concentration at 0.4 mg/L followed by
Site A with the second highest concentration at 0.3 mg/L. Site B was 0.1 mg/L below Site A at 0.2 mg/L.
Site D had the lowest phosphate concentration at 0.1 mg/L.
Analysis of Data
As the human influence decreased along the sites, the temperature reached a more favourable value
within the range of temperature at which wetland ecosystem best functions. Site A had the highest
temperature, and this may be due to the area having the largest amount of human influence example
docking area for boats and fishing. The boat engines create energy which is transferred to water making
the water warmer. Saltwater also absorbs slightly more heat than freshwater which can explain why Site
D had a higher temperature than Sites B and C.
Dissolved oxygen can vary depending on temperature and salinity. When the temperature decreases the
dissolved oxygen concentration increases. This can explain the high dissolved oxygen concentration in
Site A which had the highest temperature. Dissolved oxygen concentration decreases with an increase in
salinity. Even though Site D had one of the highest temperatures, it was the Site with the highest salinity
which decreased the dissolved oxygen concentration in the water.
Nitrates are acidic and phosphates tend to be basic. Site A and B whom had the phosphates
concentration of 0.3 mg/L and 0.2 mg/L respectively had a more basic pH when compared to the other
sites. Site C had the highest phosphates concentration at 0.4 mg/L the pH which may have over powered
the high nitrates concentration making the pH more alkali. Site D had a low nitrates concentration which
may have been overpowered by the phosphates concentration at 0.1 mg/L creating a more basic pH
when compared to Sites A and B.
Discussion of Findings
The more human influence there is in an area the more likely that area will have a high amount of
pollution. Pollution disrupts natural ecosystems and as such it is expected that sites with a higher level
of pollution will have a lover biodiversity. This statement is conformity with the results obtained from
the sites. The anthropogenic impacts of the sites were determined by an informal site survey by
observing the level of visual pollution as well as the amount of alterations done to the environment.
Site A which was the most polluted Site visually i.e. plastic bottles as well as other litter was seen. Site A
also had the largest amount of human influence from being a dock for tour boats to a fishing area as
well as being altered with infrastructures like Gabion baskets being constructed on the cliffs of the river.
The Gabion baskets present as well as the boats activity may have resulted in the water having a high
amount of sediment making it difficult for organisms within the area to survive. The temperature was
also slightly too high at 29C as well as the phosphates concentration at 0.4 mg/L according to the
standards of WHO and EPA. The phosphates, dissolved oxygen concentration and the pH were not
within the standards of WHO. All these factors may have made it difficult for organisms within the area
to thrive resulting in the low biodiversity present.
As the human influence decreased along the sites, the biodiversity increased. Whereas the biodiversity
was very low in Site A, there was a slight increase in Site B. All the water parameters in Site B were
within the recommended standards for most parts. The only exception was the dissolved oxygen
concentration. The dissolved oxygen concentration was extremely low, 2.7 mg/L, almost half the
amount recommended, 5.8 mg/L, this may be due to the Milwaukee not being calibrated for the first
measurement affecting the average. Due to the parameters being more suitable than that of site A, the
biodiversity was not very higher as there was still some human influence present proven by the
pollution was still.
Site C which was at a junction between the swamp and the Caroni River had little to no visual pollution,
but it had the highest nutrient concentration, at 3.3 mg/L for nitrates and 0.4mg/L for phosphates,
which may have been a result of fertilizers leaching from the Caroni plain crops into the river then
entering the swamp. Besides the area’s large concentration of nutrients (phosphates and nitrates) its
other parameters were within the recommended ranges. This can account for the area still having
somewhat of a larger diversity when compared to the previous sites example many small crabs were
seen as well as anteaters but not a very large biodiversity due to the nutrients concentration.
Finally, Site D which had the lowest human influence had the greatest diversity when compared to the
other three areas. All the parameters were well within the range recommended by WHO. The area also
had no visual pollution and its parameters were within the recommended range for example its pH of
7.5 and phosphates concentration of 0.1 mg/L. Due to the area having a suitable water quality, the
biodiversity was able to be vast. This was seen in the varying bird species that were sited and the other
organisms.
Conclusion
From the various observations at test that were carried out and made through this Internal Assessment,
it can be concluded that Site D had the highest biodiversity out of the four sites investigated. This area
having the highest biodiversity is more than likely due to the fact that it had the least amount of human
interaction whereas Site A which had the most human interaction had the lowest visible biodiversity
followed by Site B and then C. Though sites B and C had some parameters within the recommended
range oh WHO this could not have resulted in a biodiversity as large as Site D as there were some
exceptions which affected the water quality of the areas. The results obtained were indeed conforming
with the statement that an increase in human influence decreases the biodiversity of an area.
Recommendations
 There should be a decrease in the nitrates and phosphates-based fertilizers used in the Caroni
Pains.
 Laws should be in placed to prevent people from fishing and dumping in the easily accessible
areas of the swamp.
 The areas should be constantly assessed in order to ensure that the ecosystem is functioning at
its best throughout as the Swamp is very valuable.
Bibliography
Fondriest Environmental, Inc. “Dissolved Oxygen.” Fundamentals of Environmental Measurements. 19

Nov. 2013. Web. < https://www.fondriest.com/environmental-measurements/parameters/water-
quality/dissolved-oxygen/ >.
Fondriest Environmental, Inc. “pH of Water.” Fundamentals of Environmental Measurements. 19 Nov.

2013. Web. < https://www.fondriest.com/environmental-measurements/parameters/water-quality/ph/
>.
Fondriest Environmental, Inc. “Water Temperature.” Fundamentals of Environmental Measurements. 7

Feb. 2014. Web. < https://www.fondriest.com/environmental-measurements/parameters/water-
quality/water-temperature/ >.
European freshwater - overview. (2019). Retrieved from

https://www.eea.europa.eu/themes/water/european-waters
the definition of temperature. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.dictionary.com/browse/temperature
Water. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.who.int/topics/water/en/

Site Visits
Entry Number: 1
Date: 9th of December 2018
Site (Location): Caroni Swamp Site A
Objective: To test the water quality by testing five parameters i.e. phosphates, nitrates, temperature, pH
and dissolved oxygen.
Activities:
Test Method
Temperature Thermometer was placed into the water sample
three times and an average temperature was
taken.
pH pH solution was added to 5ml of the water

sample from the site. After being inverted for a
few minutes the colour change of the solution
was compared to the pH scale. An average of
three tests was taken.
Dissolved Oxygen The Milwaukee was placed into the water sample
from the site and the readings were taken. An
average of three tests was taken.
Nitrates Nitrate test solution 1 and 2 were added to 5ml

of the water sample from the site. After being
inverted for a few minutes the colour change of
the solution was compared to the Nitrates Colour
Chart. An average of three tests was taken.
Phosphates Phosphate test solution 1 and 2 were added to

5ml of the water sample from the site. After
being inverted for a few minutes the colour
change of the solution was compared to the
Phosphates Colour Chart. An average of three
tests was taken.
Observations:
Few vegetation and animal life present, small fish seen in the water as well as small crabs. Very polluted
and human interaction is very high. Water appears to be very murky, dead fish seen on the docks and
water bottles are seen floating in the water.
Comments:
The high human interaction in the area i.e. fishing, bathing as well as it being the docking area affects
the biodiversity of the area. There is also some Gabion baskets built on the banks of the river to avoid
erosion. The high interaction allows for the area to be heavily polluted making the environment not
favourable to the organisms resulting in a low biodiversity.
Follow up Activities:
 Visit the site at various season in the year
 Visit the site at different times a day to experience the variation in the tide.
Entry Number: 2
Site (Location): Caroni Swamp Site B
Activities:
Test Method
taken.



tests was taken.
Observations:
More plants and animals are seen as compared to Site A. The water is a lot clearer and appears to be
more brackish. Less pollution as compared to Site A, but some bottles are still present.
Comments:
Less human interaction as compared to Site A. This limited human interaction explains why the pollution
in the area a lower than the previous area hence resulting in a higher biodiversity. The trees are bigger
and more flourished small animals are now being seen.
Entry Number: 3
Site (Location): Caroni Swamp Site C
Activities:
Test Method
taken.



tests was taken.
Observations:
A junction in which the Caroni River joins the swamp. The water is very brown and muddy. Some
biodiversity present i.e. an anteater was spotted. Much larger diversity of plants is seen. Little to no
pollution seen and water is brackish.
Comments:
The higher diversity is most likely to human interaction in that area being lower leading to lower
pollution. This makes the environment more favorable for the organisms to thrive in. The junction being
present can also contribute to the biodiversity in the area as it may affect the water quality.
Entry Number: 4
Site (Location): Caroni Swamp Site D
Activities:
Test Method
taken.



tests was taken.
Observations:
Large body of water. The water is very clear and is brackish as it is close to the sea. No pollution is
present. The biodiversity is very large with multiple species of birds present. The plant life appears to be
flourishing and healthy.
Comments:
The lack of pollution may be due to the human interaction in that area being very low. Without people
being in that area there is little to no chance of pollution occurring. Lack of interaction may be the
reason for the clear water as well as the high biodiversity.
Title: Water Quality
Aim: To test the temperature of four different sites with varying amounts of human activity at the
Caroni Swamp.
Apparatus and Materials:
 Thermometer
 Water samples from the four sites
Method:
1. The thermometer was placed into the water sample of site A and the temperature was
recorded. This was repeated two more times and an average was taken.
2. The thermometer was dried with a paper towel and step one was repeated for the other site’s
samples (Sites B, C and D)
Results and Observations:
Table 1 sowing the results obtained at each site and the average temperature obtained
Temperature/ °C
Readings Site A Site B Site C Site D
1 29 28 28 28
2 29 27 27 28
3 29 27 27 27
Average 29 27.3 27.3 27.7
Discussion:
Temperature is the measure of the intensity of heat present in a substance or object (how hot or cold an
object is). Temperature can affect metabolic and the biological activity of aquatic organisms. Animals
and plants typically live in an environment in which the temperature is most favourable for them i.e.
where they can function at their best. If the temperature is not favourable I.e. extreme temperatures
(too cold or too hot) this can result in death of the animal or the animal is likely to migrate to an
environment in which the temperature is more favourable. Some aquatic plants can survive in cold
climates, but most prefer to flourish in warmer temperatures. High temperatures can increase the
solubility of toxic substances in the water which is proven to be very dangerous to both the animal and
plant life in the ecosystem as it can lead to an algae bloom. A rise in temperatures can increase the rate
of photosynthesis as well as respiration in plants. Varying temperature can be a result of the time of
year (season) as well as the influence of humans I.e. pollutants. Temperature can also be influenced by
the presence of another body of water such as streams or rivers.
Tropical freshwater aquatic animals and plants thrive best in waters ranging from 24-28°C in tropical
climates. This means at these temperatures the organisms are more likely to be at their highest
metabolic rates and their highest biological activity. Due to the organisms performing at their highest
metabolic rates and biological activity there will be more biodiversity within the ecosystem i.e. larger
variation of animal and plant life. When the temperature ranges below or above that of the standard
temperature, there is less biodiversity. This is due to the temperature affecting the metabolic rate and
biological activity within the ecosystem. Extreme temperatures affect the enzyme activity within
organism either the enzyme is inactive in low temperatures or becomes denatured in high temperatures
thus decreasing the metabolic function of the organism. Tropical plants can suffer from restricted
growth in temperatures below 21°C.
At site A which is a highly human influenced area the temperature was 29°C. This is slightly higher than
the temperature at which the organisms in the ecosystem best thrive at. This higher temperature can be
a result of the human influence such as pollutants as well as the area being used for recreational
purposes. This can explain the lack of animal and plant life present as the temperature is not favourable
to the organisms present in the ecosystem. Site B which has less human influence had a temperature of
27.3°C. Due to less activities of humans and a decrease in pollution the area was able to have a
temperature suitable for the organism in the environment leading to site B to have a larger amount of
biodiversity. At site C the temperature was also 27.3°C, this temperature can be influenced by the canal
from the Caroni river feeding into that portion of the swamp. This area showed evidence of biodiversity
which can be linked to the temperature being suitable for the organisms in the ecosystem. Site D which
had the least amount of human influence had a temperature of 27.7°C. This temperature also falls in the
range at which organisms associated with that ecosystem thrives best at. Due to the temperature being
favourable this area had a large biodiversity with varying species of birds and plants included.
Conclusion:
At the site which had the highest human influence the temperature was not within the favourable range
whereas as the human influenced decreased along the sites the temperature ranged within the
favourable range of organisms of organisms in that ecosystem.
Aim: To test the pH of four different sites with varying amounts of human activity at the Caroni Swamp.
Apparatus and Material:
 Test tubes
 pH Test Solution
 Test tube cork
 pH Colour Chart
Method:
1. A clean test was filled with 5 ml of water from site A i.e. filled up to the line on the tube.
2. 3 drops of pH Test Solution was added holding the dropper bottle upside down in a completely
vertical position to assure uniformity of drops.
3. The test tube was capped and inverted several times to mix the solution.
4. The solution was allowed to sit for 3 minutes before comparing the colour of the solution to the
pH Colour Chart.
5. The solution was then discarded, and the test tube was washed and dried.
6. Steps 1-4 were repeated using the water samples from sites B, C and D.
Table 1 showing the pH obtained at each site and the average pH calculated after 3 readings
pH
1 7.6 7.2 7.6 7.6
2 7.6 7.2 7.6 7.6
3 7.2 7.2 7.6 7.6
Average 7.5 7.2 7.6 7.6
Discussion:
pH is a very important parameter as it is the measure if how acid or alkaline the water is. The pH can the
aquatic organisms as it affects both their metabolic rate as well as their biological activity. If the pH
exceeds the optimum range I.e. too high or too low the organisms within the ecosystem may not survive
and can also suffer from restricted growth therefore decreasing the productivity of the ecosystem. The
pH can affect biological activities such as hatching of some species and survival rates. The pH can also
affect the enzyme activity within an organism, if the pH condition is not suitable, making it difficult for
an organism’s metabolic activity to function at its best. The pH the water can be influenced by Acid rain.
Acid runoff can decrease the alkalinity of the water subsequently decreasing the pH below the optimum.
Leaching of heavy metals with the acid rain can cause the water to become toxic making it very difficult
for the fish to survive.
The pH range at which tropical freshwater aquatic organisms thrive best at is around 6-8.5. At this range
the organisms have the highest metabolic rate as well as biological activity. Anything above or below
this range can be fatal to the organisms within the ecosystem subsequently decreasing the productivity
of the ecosystem. If the water is highly alkaline, this can cause damage to the gills, eyes and skin of the
fish as well as cause death. As stated earlier, extreme pH's can lead to an increase in the toxicity of other
substances e.g. Ammonia. An increase in acidity can lead to the development of unwanted species
overgrowth such as plankton making it difficult for other organisms within the ecosystem to access
resources. An increase in acidity can also affect the reproductive system of some fishes decreasing the
amount of eggs laid decreasing the population of the fish all round.
The results obtained from all four site were all within the recommended pH range of aquatic freshwater
organisms within that ecosystem. Site B which had the lowest pH, 7.2, may be due to the water being
the least brackish and has the least human influence whereas site A with a pH of 7.5 has more human
influence than site B suffers from pollution which affects the pH of the water. Leaching from the crops
which surround the Caroni river can also be one of the causes for the pH. Site C and D share the same
pH which can be due to both sites being brackish. Sea water tends to have a higher pH which can
account for the pH being higher than that of Site B. In conclusion the pH’s of all four sites are well within
the range in which the organisms can function best.
Conclusion:
The pH of all four sites are within the suitable range, site A was influenced by the pollution as well as
leaching, site B had little to no influence and sites C and D were more saline hence the higher pH.
Aim: To test the dissolved oxygen concentration for four different sites with varying amounts of human
activity at the Caroni Swamp.
 MW600 Open Air Calibrator (Milwaukee)

Method:
1. The Milwaukee was calibrated for accurate results to be obtained.
2. After calibration the Milwaukee was placed into the water sample of site A perfectly vertical
creating a right angle with the water.
3. After being placed in the water sample a reading was taken when standard number was
obtained.
4. The Milwaukee was dried with a paper towel and steps 1-3 were repeated for the other samples
of sites A, B and C.
Table 1 showing the amount of dissolved oxygen obtained at each site and the average amount
calculated after 3 readings
Dissolved Oxygen (mg/l)

1 5.9 1.6 4.5 4
2 5.6 3.2 5.5 4.3
3 5.9 3.3 4.1 4.4
Average 5.8 2.7 4.7 4.2
Discussion:
Dissolved oxygen is the amount of free dissolved oxygen present in water. It is the oxygen needed for
organisms who require oxygen for respiration and furthermore metabolic processes to survive. The
estimated concentration for dissolved oxygen is 5.0-9.0 mg/l. A dissolve oxygen level that is too high or
too low can harm aquatic life within the ecosystem both the animal life and plant life require oxygen for
respiration.
Dissolved oxygen can be brought in to the water from photosynthesis of plant life on the air. Dissolved
oxygen concentration increases with a decrease in salinity. When there is agitation of water the
dissolved oxygen concentration is increased. When there is a high or low amount of dissolved oxygen
this can lead to significant deaths in a fish population. When there is ice present or a waterfall or dam
nearby affecting the dissolved oxygen concentration this can cause deaths. One disease associated with
dissolved oxygen is known as gas bubble disease can cause many deaths within the fish population.
Excessive nutrient pollution can result in a low dissolved oxygen because of eutrophication.
At site A the dissolved oxygen was at its highest this can be due to the action of boats which agitate the
water creating more air bubbles therefore increasing the amount of oxygen present. This can also be a
result of the lack of fish present, if there are less organism present to use the oxygen for respiration this
can lead to an excess as it is not being used up. Another reason is that it is mainly freshwater and fresh
water hold more amounts of oxygen compared to the amount saline water can hold. At site B there is
the lowest amount of oxygen this can be the result of the large biodiversity present hence the oxygen is
being used. At site C the dissolved oxygen level measured at 4.7 this can be due to the area not being
heavily diverse as well as its influence from the canal from the Caroni river. It is also lower than site A as
site C is more saline than site A. Site D has a similar measurement to site C, but it is lower. This can be
because site D is more saline than site C and saline water hold less dissolved oxygen when compared to
that of freshwater. Site D also has a wider variety of organism who can use the oxygen for respiration.
Conclusion:
Site A had the highest concentration of dissolved oxygen due to there being a higher influence of human
activity and lack of fish present, whereas site C and D had a lower level than A due to the site being
more saline and C had the lowest due to presence of aquatic animal life.
Aim: To test the nitrates concentration for four different sites with varying amounts of human activity at
the Caroni Swamp.
 Test tubes
 Test tube cork
 Nitrate Test Solution #1
 Nitrate Test Solution #2
Method:
2. 10 drops of Nitrate Test Solution #1 were added holding the dropper bottle upside down in a
completely vertical position to assure uniformity of drops.
3. The test tube was capped and inverted several times to mix the solution.
4. Nitrate Test Solution #2 was shaken for about 30 seconds to allow contents to be mixed evenly.
5. 10 drops of Nitrate Test Solution #2 were then added whilst holding the dropper bottle upside
down in a completely vertical position to assure uniformity of drops.
6. The test tube was capped and inverted several times to mix the solution once again.
7. It was timed for 3 minutes for a colour to develop.
8. The colour which resulted was then compared to the Nitrate Colour Chart.
Table 1 showing the nitrates concentration obtained at each site and the average amount calculated
after 3 readings
Nitrate Concentration (mg/l)

Reading Site A Site B Site C Site D
1 0 0 0 0
2 5 0 5 5
3 0 5 5 0
Average 1.7 1.7 3.3 1.7
Discussion:
Nitrogen makes up a large amount of our air in the form of N 2 gas. It enters the ecosystem as plants use
it as a source of protein and the animals then it the plants and use the nitrates for the organic building
of protein. The estimated number of nitrates most suitable for freshwater aquatic organisms is between
0.5-2 mg/L. Nitrates are natural nutrients, in excess however they become nutrient pollutants leading to
the excessive growth of algae which restricts light from penetrating the water to be able to reach the
organisms beneath the bloom. The reason there being an increase in algae with an excessive amount of
nitrates is that algae converts nitrogen into the nitrates and with and excess of nitrogen or nitrates the
algae flourishes.
Excess nitrates can enter an ecosystem due to the influence of human activity, this includes the
dumping of untreated sewage in water ways or the runoff of fertilizers from nearby crops. These contain
nitrates and subsequently increase the amount present in the water body. The excess growth of algae
can cause stress on the fish which can lead to them having difficulty in reproduction as well as the fish
migrating all round. Excess algae once again make it difficult for the organisms beneath them to
photosynthesize as they are receiving limited amount of sunlight therefore decreasing the number of
producers which decreases the amount of food needed for the other trophic levels therefore decreasing
the productivity of the ecosystem.
Sites A, B and C all had a nitrate concentration of 1.7 mg/L I.e. they all fall within the range of the
estimated amount. Due to sites B and D lack of human activity the nitrate levels are not too high as
limited amount of pollution is inflicted. However, the value is on the higher side which suggests that
there is some form of pollution within the general area of the Caroni Swamp. This can be assumed to be
due to the influence of the Caroni River being surrounded my many crops in which fertilizers are used.
Site C however had a value far higher than the estimated amount. This high value can be due to the
junction in which the Caroni River joins the Caroni Swamp. The Caroni River is surrounded by many
crops to whom use fertilizers which contain nitrates. With rainfall the nitrates from the crops was into
the river and then flow into this area of the Caroni Swamp to accumulate therefore increasing the
nitrate concentration.
Conclusion:
The areas in which the influence if fertilizers were not very high (Sites A, B and D) had an average nitrate
concentration whereas the area which was heavily influenced by the presence of washed away fertilizer
from crops had a nitrate concentration far above the range for organisms in that ecosystem.
Aim: To test the phosphates concentration for four different sites with varying amounts of human
activity at the Caroni Swamp.
 Test tubes
 Test tube cork
 Phosphate Test Solution #1
 Phosphate Test Solution #2
Method:
2. 6 drops of Phosphate Test Solution #1 were added holding the dropper bottle upside down in a
completely vertical position to assure uniformity of drops.
3. The test tube was capped and shaken for 5 seconds.
4. 6 drops of Phosphate Test Solution #2 were then added whilst holding the dropper bottle upside
down in a completely vertical position to assure uniformity of drops.
5. The test tube was then capped and shaken for 5 seconds.
6. It was timed for 3 minutes for a colour to develop.
7. The colour which resulted was then compared to the Phosphate Colour Chart.
Table 1 showing the phosphate concentration obtained at each site and the average amount calculated
after 3 readings
Phosphate Concentration (mg/l)

1 0.25 0.25 0.25 0
2 0.25 0.25 0.5 0.25
3 0.5 0 0.5 0
Average 0.3 0.2 0.4 0.1
Discussion:
Phosphorus is needed in small quantities for plant growth and metabolic reaction in both animal and
plant life in aquatic freshwater organisms. It is a natural nutrient and it is the natural nutrient that is in
the shortest supply in a freshwater ecosystem. A small amount can lead to a large significant plant
growth and therefore subsequently affecting the ecosystem as an entire unit. The estimated range for
phosphorus at which the organisms present in a freshwater ecosystem is 0.005-0.1 mg/L depending on
the size of the body of water. Above this estimated range can cause a great impact on the water body as
there will be a rapid increase in the growth of plants and algae. The increase in algae population can
lead to an algae bloom making it difficult for organisms beneath the bloom to receive light for
photosynthesis.
Excess phosphates can enter an aquatic ecosystem via untreated sewage being dumped as well as the
leaching of fertilizers and detergents. These are both human influenced activities and play a large part in
the eutrophication process. An increase in the phosphate level allows more nutrients to be available to
the algae which feed on the phosphates. This increases the algae population as well as the plant
population increase due to the phosphates being more available. The algae population forms a bloom
and the water is covered by the algae population. This bloom can cause a stress on the fish population
affecting their reproduction which decreases the population of the fish entirely. Algae blooms also make
it difficult for plants below the bloom to receive sunlight for photosynthesis. The plants below
eventually die decreasing the amount of food available for primary consumers. This causes a chain
reaction in the ecosystem where the food supply is limited, and the productivity of the ecosystem is
decreased.
In site A the phosphates level was 0.3mg/L, this is way above the estimated amount and can be a result
of the Caroni River flowing directly into the area. The Caroni River maybe carrying some fertilizer runoff
from the nearby crops leading to an increase in the phosphates level. Site B was less human activity
influenced hence a decrease in the phosphate level from site A. Site B was within the estimated range
but in the higher portion of the range, this can be due to the general area of the Caroni Swamp being
surrounded by crops. Site B had the highest phosphate concentration at 4.0. This is most likely due to
that area being directly connected to a branch if the Caroni River. Fertilizer runoff from nearby crops
flow into the Caroni River and then carriers the phosphate pollutants to that area of the swamp thereby
increasing the phosphates concentration in that area. Site D had the lowest phosphate concentration at
1.0 mg/L. This low value within the range is due to there being little to no human influence in this area.
There is also limited influence from the Caroni River which brings phosphate pollutions to the other 3
sites.
Conclusions:
Sites which were connected to the Caroni River had a higher phosphate concentration due to the
fertilizer runoff whereas the sites with the least amount of interaction with the Caroni River had the
lowest phosphate concentrations.
Aim: To observe the conditions of four different sites with varying amounts of human activity at the
Caroni Swamp.
 Writing Materials
 Notebook
 Camera
Method:
1. At each site the physical conditions were recorded i.e. including the colour of the water, animal
life present etc.
2. Pictures were taken to show evidence of the conditions.
Table 1 showing the observations at each of the varying sites
Site Observations Pictures

A Very few vegetation and animal life, clothes left
on tree branches, dead fishes, the water appears
to be very cloudy (murky), pollution present in
both the water and on the vegetation (water
bottles, buckets, wrappers), Gabion baskets at
the river banks.
Water sample Dead fish Pollution
B More biodiversity (more vegetation and animals

present e.g. small crabs and bird species), water
is more brackish (more salt-water present with
the freshwater), pollution is present but less,
water is clearer.
Water sample Pollution
C Junction where the water from the Caroni river

feeds into the swamps, water is very brown and
muddy, some biodiversity (anteater, small
crabs), little pollution seen, brackish water.
Water sample Brackish water
D Larger body of water, biodiversity very present

(multiple species of birds seen), water is
brackish, water appears to be very clear, no
pollution.
Biodiversity
Water sample
Discussion:
Human activity can play a large role in the water quality of an aquatic ecosystem. Most affects are
proven to be negative. In Site A where the human activity was high, there was a large amount of
pollution and the water was very cloudy. This cloudiness of the water is likely due to the amount of
sediment present due to the agitation of the water from human activities such as fishing and boat
motors. At site B the water was a little clearer and less pollution was seen. At site C the water was a little
muddy due to this area being a junction with a connection to the Caroni River. Less pollution was seen
at this site as well. At site D no pollution was seen at all and the water was at its clearest. This is due to
this area having the least amount of human activity influence and the area remained undisturbed.
Conclusion:
At the human influence decreased there was less pollution in the location sites and the water appeared
clearer.

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Map of Trinidad

Method of Data Collection

Biodiversity is the variety of organisms in an ecosystem, biome or an entire planet. A diverse

Parameter/Substance WHO (Pollutants Level)

Nitrates 0.5 to 2.0 mg/L

Graph 1 showing the average temperature obtained at each site

7 7.1 7.2 7.3 7.4 7.5 7.6 7.7

Graph 2 showing the pH obtained at each site

Dissolved oxygen concentration (mg/L)

Dissolved oxygen concentration (mg/L)

Graph 3 showing the dissolved oxygen concentration obtained at each site

Nitrates concentration (mg/L)

Nitrates concentration (mg/L)

Graph 4 showing the nitrates concentration at each site

Phosphates concentration (mg/L)

Phosphates concentration (mg/L)

Graph 5 showing the phosphate concentration at each site

Fondriest Environmental, Inc. “Dissolved Oxygen.” Fundamentals of Environmental Measurements. 19

Fondriest Environmental, Inc. “pH of Water.” Fundamentals of Environmental Measurements. 19 Nov.

Fondriest Environmental, Inc. “Water Temperature.” Fundamentals of Environmental Measurements. 7

European freshwater - overview. (2019). Retrieved from

the definition of temperature. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.dictionary.com/browse/temperature

Water. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.who.int/topics/water/en/

Date: 9th of December 2018

Site (Location): Caroni Swamp Site A

pH pH solution was added to 5ml of the water

Nitrates Nitrate test solution 1 and 2 were added to 5ml

Phosphates Phosphate test solution 1 and 2 were added to

 Visit the site at various season in the year

Date: 9th of December 2018

Site (Location): Caroni Swamp Site B

pH pH solution was added to 5ml of the water

Nitrates Nitrate test solution 1 and 2 were added to 5ml

Phosphates Phosphate test solution 1 and 2 were added to

 Visit the site at various season in the year

Date: 9th of December 2018

Site (Location): Caroni Swamp Site C

pH pH solution was added to 5ml of the water

Nitrates Nitrate test solution 1 and 2 were added to 5ml

Phosphates Phosphate test solution 1 and 2 were added to

 Visit the site at various season in the year

Date: 9th of December 2018

Site (Location): Caroni Swamp Site D

pH pH solution was added to 5ml of the water

Nitrates Nitrate test solution 1 and 2 were added to 5ml

Phosphates Phosphate test solution 1 and 2 were added to

 Visit the site at various season in the year

Apparatus and Materials:

Results and Observations:

Apparatus and Material:

Apparatus and Material:

 MW600 Open Air Calibrator (Milwaukee)

1. The Milwaukee was calibrated for accurate results to be obtained.

Results and Observations:

Dissolved Oxygen (mg/l)

Apparatus and Material:

7. It was timed for 3 minutes for a colour to develop.

Nitrate Concentration (mg/l)

Apparatus and Material:

3. The test tube was capped and shaken for 5 seconds.

6. It was timed for 3 minutes for a colour to develop.

Phosphate Concentration (mg/l)

Apparatus and Material:

Table 1 showing the observations at each of the varying sites