Water Turbidity
Benchmark Value
Scoring Curve
This curve shows how a field measurement for this indicator would score across all available benchmark forms in this context. The scoring engine uses 11 benchmarks together — the OptimalRange form drives the primary score, while 10 guard(s) constrain the result.
Evidence & Context
Sustained turbidity levels exceeding approximately 30 NTU during these clearer phases can be considered detrimental to sensitive components of the aquatic ecosystem.
Sustained water turbidity level beyond which ecological harm to aquatic organisms occurs.
This benchmark represents the maximum turbidity level above which sustained exposure causes harm to sensitive aquatic organisms during dry season clearer water phases.
Based on studies in the Alligator Rivers Region showing adverse effects on macroinvertebrates at sustained turbidity of 30 NTU during dry season.
Sources (1)
Supporting Sources (2)
Additional references from the underlying research that informed this benchmark.
Department of Natural Resources, Environment, The Arts and Sport (NRETAS). (2009). Water Quality Protection Plan – Darwin Harbour Region. Final Draft – November 2009. Technical Report No. 12/2009D. Northern Territory Government, Darwin.
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Northern Territory Department of Environment, Parks and Water Security (or preceding agencies). (2009). Water Quality Objectives for the Darwin Harbour Region. Summary Document (referencing Fukuda & Townsend, 2006).
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