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

Fecal indicator bacteria (FIB) in Plitvice Lakes National Park exhibit seasonal and spatial variability, with higher densities observed in the spring area compared to Prošćansko Lake. The study identified the White River below the village of Plitvički Ljeskovac as a primary source of fecal pollution, particularly in July and October, likely due to heavy rainfall. Seasonal fluctuations were noted, with increased densities of total coliforms (TC) and fecal coliforms (FC) in these months. The ratio of FC/FS suggested animal-derived contamination in July. Additionally, the Matica River estuary in Prošćansko Lake showed elevated TC and FC levels, potentially influenced by source streams and lake stratification. These findings underscore the impact of weather conditions and water column dynamics on FIB distribution, highlighting the need for targeted monitoring to assess health hazards in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Vurnek, M. (2016). Distributional patterns of fecal indicator bacteria in spring area of Plitvice Lakes National park. Periodicum Biologorum, 118(1), 37–44. https://doi.org/10.18054/pb.2016.118.1.2849