Dynamics of the nitrogen transformation in a shallow stream and possible interventions

This paper presents the assessment of the efficiency of the main biological nitrogen transformation processes in a shallow well-oxygenated river and conditions under which they are active and stabilise. The process dynamics was studied with the help of mathematical modelling of 2 years on-line data...

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Veröffentlicht in:Water science and technology 2006-01, Vol.54 (6-7), p.331-338
1. Verfasser: Kabelkova-Jancarkova, I
Format: Artikel
Sprache:eng
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Zusammenfassung:This paper presents the assessment of the efficiency of the main biological nitrogen transformation processes in a shallow well-oxygenated river and conditions under which they are active and stabilise. The process dynamics was studied with the help of mathematical modelling of 2 years on-line data series measured in a reach of the Toess River, Switzerland. The algal nitrogen uptake was very stable and unaffected by most but frequent flood events. Daylight photosynthetic nitrogen uptake stabilised at 6 mgN mstreambed(-2) h(-1) (15 degrees C), dark uptake on storage products at rates of 0.5-2.5 mgN mstreambed(-2) h(-1). Nitrogen uptake by heterotrophic bacteria in the hyporheic zone was relatively constant at a level of 1.5-3.5 mgN mstreambed(-2) h(-1). Streambed nitrification could establish only during periods with average an daily concentration of at least 0.3 g(NH4-N) m(-3) in river water for several weeks. The maximum nitrification rate was 35 mgN mstreambed(-2) h(-1) for 3 g(NH4-N) m(-3). The effects of reduced nitrification in the WWTP and of river banks shading on a sudden ammonium peak were simulated. A river reach endangered by ammonium spills should be kept open to sun to favour ammonium uptake by algae. In-stream nitrification reduces ammonium peaks efficiently but leads to toxic nitrite concentrations.
ISSN:0273-1223
1996-9732
DOI:10.2166/wst.2006.575