Date of Award
8-1984
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Department
Biological Sciences
First Advisor
Dr. Clarence J. Goodnight
Second Advisor
Dr. Joseph Engemann
Third Advisor
Dr. Leo Vander Beek
Access Setting
Masters Thesis-Open Access
Abstract
The diversity index is an established method of measuring water quality. In this study various diversity indices are evaluated for their use in a rapid, accurate, and cost effective biological monitoring program. The study investigated five diversity indices: Approximate, Brillouin's, Shannon's, Simpson's and the Sequential Comparison Index. The diversity indices were tested for accuracy and sensitivity on actual on actual macroinvertebrate samples and simulated data.
The Simposon's Index was found to provide the most accuracy and sensitivity for the indices tested. The importance of considering the evenness element of diversity indices was also supported by the study.
Recommended Citation
Siebert, Karl Josef, "An Evaluation and Comparison of Various Diversity Indices as Illustrated by Portage Creek" (1984). Masters Theses. 1547.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/masters_theses/1547