Benthic and periphytic invertebrate contour groups in techno-ecosystems of power plants of Ukraine

Abstract

Based on many years of research experience of water techno-ecosystems of thermal and nuclear power plants a brief review of the main patterns of formation of the composition, cenotic structure, elements of the functional organization of benthos and periphyton communities was made. It was shown that the composition of zoobenthos and zooperiphyton in some cooling ponds, other technical water bodies and watercourses was quite rich. In addition, due to the rather intensive invasive process, the list of taxa is constantly expanding. Species of tropical and subtropical origin have been recorded. Of particular importance is the invasion of species that may be the cause of bio-hindrances in the operation of power plant equipment. Techno-ecosystems have been studied to varying degrees. One of the most studied for a long time are the cooling ponds of Khmelnitsky and Chernobyl nuclear power plants. Hydrobiological research and monitoring at the first one has been carried out for more than 20 years. It was found that the influence of biotic invasion (invasion of Dreissenidae) may have a significant impact, comparable to extreme technogenic factors, on both the ecosystem and technical water supply facilities. The stages of contourisation and decontourisation processes in the Khmelnitsky NPP techno-ecosystem were established. At the Chernobyl NPP cooling pond, studies were carried out during all periods of the existence of the reservoir and the power plant, until the process of uncontrolled pond descent and transforming it into a unique wetland. Based on the obtained data, practical recommendations relating to the organization of hydrobiological and environmental monitoring, as well as reducing biological hindrances and improving the reliability of power plant equipment have been developed.