The contribution and value of the trait-based approach to water resource protection

Abstract

Freshwater is one of the Earth’s most crucial resources for social-economic development and prosperity. Biomonitoring contributes to water resource protection by integrating a holistic picture of ecosystem health through an analysis of resident biota. The taxonomy-based approach, in which taxa assemblages are analysed and compared between sites, is common in freshwater biomonitoring. However, this approach is mainly descriptive and has no predictive or effect diagnostic potential. The trait-based approach (TBA) has been hailed as capable of transforming biomonitoring into a predictive science with the potential for effect diagnosis. This paper presents a framework for the potential use of traits in riverine water resource monitoring and management. It provided ways to integrate the TBA into the Resource Quality Objectives (RQOs), current biomonitoring protocols, and developing predictive models. Their effect diagnostic potential, assemblage response predictive value and links to crucial ecosystem functions should guide the selection and integration of traits into RQOs. Examples of trait-based RQOs statements are provided.