Comparison of stream macroinvertebrate assemblages in canyon ecosystems of the Blue Mountains (Australia) with and without recreational traffic: a pilot study in impossible terrain

Despite expectations, current visitation levels in canyons of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area show no measurable impact on stream macroinvertebrate assemblages or water quality. The study compared four high-visitation canyons (20-100 visits/week) with four unvisited/low-visitation canyons (0-5 visits/week), as well as impacted and non-impacted areas within two high-traffic canyons, over two seasons. Macroinvertebrate assemblages included pollution-sensitive taxa, such as Ephemeroptera (42.3% of all animals), and water quality remained pristine across all locations. While inherent differences among canyons were observed, no significant relationship between visitation levels and ecological indicators was found, contrary to the concerns of land managers.

Hardiman, N., & Burgin, S. (2011). Comparison of stream macroinvertebrate assemblages in canyon ecosystems of the Blue Mountains (Australia) with and without recreational traffic: a pilot study in impossible terrain. Australian Zoologist, 35(3), 757–769. https://doi.org/10.7882/az.2011.027