Estimation of aquatic plant height in the southern basin of Lake Biwa using an acoustic doppler current profiler

Abstract

In lacustrine ecosystems, aquatic plants are key components that significantly influence water quality, making their monitoring essential for environmental management. Traditional diver-based surveys are costly and labor-intensive, highlighting the need for simpler methods. This study compares a method using an Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP) to estimate aquatic plant height with direct measurements by divers at six sites in the southern basin of Lake Biwa. Results indicate a correlation between ADCP estimates and diver measurements and this study also roughly estimated PVI (Percent Volume Infestation) and biomass. Using past survey data, this study estimated the water depth, average aquatic plant height, PVI, and biomass in the southern basin of Lake Biwa for 2020, confirming the method’s accuracy compared to other approaches. The ADCP method significantly improves the cost and efficiency of aquatic plant monitoring, offering wide applicability in future water quality surveys and management.