Distributional patterns of fecal indicator bacteria in spring area of Plitvice lakes National park

A study on fecal indicator bacteria (FIB) in Plitvice Lakes National Park revealed that the spring area sustained higher densities of FIB compared to Prošćansko Lake, with the White River below the village showing the highest values, indicating Plitvički Ljeskovac as a primary source of fecal pollution. Seasonal variations were observed, particularly in July and October, with the latter likely influenced by heavy rainfall. The FC/FS ratio suggested contamination primarily of animal origin during July. Increased densities of total coliforms (TC) and fecal coliforms (FC) were noted at the Matica River estuary in Prošćansko Lake, possibly due to source stream influence and stratification conditions. The study highlights that FIB distribution in this protected area is influenced by season, weather conditions, and water column dynamics.

Vurnek, M., Brozinčević, A., Briški, F., & Matoničkin Kepčija, R. (2016). Distributional patterns of fecal indicator bacteria in spring area of Plitvice lakes National park. Periodicum Biologorum, 118(1). https://doi.org/10.18054/pb.v118i1.2849