A dataset on quantifying a mass mortality event in freshwater wildlife within the Lower Odra River

Data Brief. 2023 Nov 11:51:109753. doi: 10.1016/j.dib.2023.109753. eCollection 2023 Dec.

Abstract

In response to the significant ecological disaster in the Odra River during the summer of 2022, a comprehensive data collection process was initiated to quantify the extent of mortality among aquatic species. The dataset focuses on the downstream section of the river, identified as the area with the highest accumulation of deceased organisms. The data collection involved systematic sampling and counting of dead organisms, including fish, bivalves , and aquatic snails. Special attention was given to specific species such as Unionidae mussels, Anodonta anatina, Sinanodonta woodiana, and Viviparus viviparus. Additionally, transects were designated for focused data collection on fish mortality. The dataset provides detailed mortality figures, biomass estimates, and percentage reductions for each species. This comprehensive dataset holds significant potential for reuse by researchers studying the effects of toxins on freshwater ecosystems, the impact of invasive species on native populations, and conservationists aiming to restore the affected areas.

Keywords: Bivalvia; Ecological disaster; Ecosystem Imbalance; Ecosystem collapse; Fish; Gastropoda; Golden Algae; River pollution.