What indicators can help assess the health of an aquatic ecosystem regarding pest presence?

The selection of water quality parameters and biodiversity levels as indicators of aquatic ecosystem health is well-founded because these factors provide direct insights into the ecological balance and the presence of pest species. Water quality encompasses various components, including temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, nutrient concentrations, and any contaminants. These parameters are critical because they affect the survival and reproduction of aquatic organisms, including both beneficial species and potential pests.

Biodiversity levels further serve as a key indicator because a diverse ecosystem is typically more resilient and better able to withstand and recover from pest invasions. A decline in species diversity can suggest that the ecosystem is stressed, possibly due to pollution, habitat destruction, or the presence of invasive pests. By monitoring biodiversity, including both native species and pest organisms, one can effectively gauge the overall health of the ecosystem and identify potential issues related to pest management.

In contrast, the presence of local fishermen might indicate certain economic activities but does not provide specific information about the ecological state of the water body. Additionally, while the volume of water and types of recreational activities might offer some context, they do not directly reflect ecosystem health or pest presence. Thus, water quality and biodiversity levels are the most relevant indicators for assessing the health of aquatic ecosystems regarding pest management.