Comparative water quality analysis of Lake McCormack and Devils Brook by evaluating Physicochemical Parameters and Macroinvertebrate Community Indices
Sahil Subramaniam
[email protected]
Publication date: April 20, 2026
[email protected]
Publication date: April 20, 2026
DOI: http://doi.org/10.34614/JIYRC2026I01
ABSTRACT
Freshwater ecosystems are of vital importance to many organisms, including humans, as they provide necessary ecosystem services for our livelihood. Due to its relevance, scientists constantly monitor the water quality of freshwater systems such as rivers and lakes. Interestingly, Devils Brook and Lake McCormack have no studies about scientists monitoring their abiotic water quality and the benthic macroinvertebrate bioindicators that inhabit these bodies of water. Therefore, this study evaluates the chemical and biological parameters of Devils Brook and Lake McCormack, and applies several pollution indices such as the New Jersey Index, MBI, and Leaf Pack Biotic web calculator. Results show a high concentration of many heavy metals (most notably lead), nitrogenous compounds, and a low concentration of carbonate and pH, deviating beyond standard ranges. Analyzing macroinvertebrates and the pollution indices, Devils Brook had the highest level of water quality score within the field of the overall study, while the Stream had the lowest level of overall water quality when compared to Lake McCormack and Devils Brook. This study suggests intervention from the governing bodies of New Jersey to ensure the water is safe for all inhabitants in the area and aquatic life.
Freshwater ecosystems are of vital importance to many organisms, including humans, as they provide necessary ecosystem services for our livelihood. Due to its relevance, scientists constantly monitor the water quality of freshwater systems such as rivers and lakes. Interestingly, Devils Brook and Lake McCormack have no studies about scientists monitoring their abiotic water quality and the benthic macroinvertebrate bioindicators that inhabit these bodies of water. Therefore, this study evaluates the chemical and biological parameters of Devils Brook and Lake McCormack, and applies several pollution indices such as the New Jersey Index, MBI, and Leaf Pack Biotic web calculator. Results show a high concentration of many heavy metals (most notably lead), nitrogenous compounds, and a low concentration of carbonate and pH, deviating beyond standard ranges. Analyzing macroinvertebrates and the pollution indices, Devils Brook had the highest level of water quality score within the field of the overall study, while the Stream had the lowest level of overall water quality when compared to Lake McCormack and Devils Brook. This study suggests intervention from the governing bodies of New Jersey to ensure the water is safe for all inhabitants in the area and aquatic life.
