FAO.org

First of a series of reports on water quality criteria for European freshwster fish prepared for and approved by the European Inland Fisheries Advisory Commission. The background of the project is described and reasons for establishing water quality criteria for fish explained. This is followed by a literature survey of: the direct effects of solids in suspension on death or survival of fish, their growth, and resistance to disease; suspended solids and reproduction; effects on behaviour; effect on food supply; total effect of suspended solids on freshwater fisheries. Tentative water quality criteria are suggested.