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Impact of power-plant discharges on marine zooplankton: A review of thermal, mechanical and biocidal effects

Helgoländer Meeresuntersuchungen volume 33, pages 422–432 (1980)Cite this article

Abstract

The relative importance of thermal, mechanical and biocidal stresses to marine zooplankton entrained in cooling waters from coastal power-plant operations is dependent on specific features of power-plant design and siting. Toxic effects of power-plant operations will vary with (1) the degree of mechanical stress induced by pumping velocities of cooling water; (2) the physical and chemical interaction of receiving and discharge waters; (3) the dosage of chlorine or other biocide added to cooling waters for fouling control; (4) the exposure time to stress conditions experienced during passage through condenser conduits and discharge canals; and (5) the nature of receiving waters, affecting the production and availability of the various halogen toxicants formed upon chlorination of seawater. Because of these variables, the problem of entrainment-induced mortality of zooplankton and the resulting effects on secondary production in receiving waters is difficult to assess. A review of laboratory and field studies addressing these problems is presented and particular emphasis given to the synergistic effect of multiple stresses.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, 02543, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, USA

    J. M. Capuzzo

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  1. J. M. Capuzzo
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Capuzzo, J.M. Impact of power-plant discharges on marine zooplankton: A review of thermal, mechanical and biocidal effects. Helgolander Meeresunters 33, 422–432 (1980). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02414767

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Keywords

Helgoland Marine Research

ISSN: 1438-3888

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