Water Electrical Conductivity (EC)
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 3 benchmarks together — the OptimalRange form drives the primary score, while 2 guard(s) constrain the result.
Contributing Benchmarks
Evidence & Context
The research identifies a distinct threshold of ecological change at an Electrical Conductivity of approximately 280μS/cm.
Electrical Conductivity (EC) is a fundamental measure of water quality that quantifies the ability of a solution to conduct an electrical current, measured in microSiemens per centimeter (μS/cm) at 25 0C.
This benchmark defines the upper limit of electrical conductivity in freshwater streams to maintain high ecological health, marking the onset of stress in sensitive aquatic species in the Temperate Grassy Woodlands & Plains biome under aquaculture land use.
This value is based on a robust, peer-reviewed study specific to the target biome's stream types and aligns with the best-practice methodology recommended by national water quality guidelines.
Sources (1)
Diatom0water quality thresholds in South Australian streams indicate a need for more stringent water quality guidelines - CSIRO PUBLISHING | Marine and Freshwater Research
View SourceSupporting Sources (2)
Additional references from the underlying research that informed this benchmark.
Effects of increasing salinity on freshwater ecosystems in Australia - ResearchGate
View SourceBasin Plan water quality targets; Australian and New Zealand Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Water Quality (ANZG 2018/ANZECC 2000); Australia State of the Environment 2021: Inland water
View Source