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Effect of Storage Method and Associated Holding Time on Nitrogen and Phosphorus Concentrations in Surface Water Samples

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Abstract

Assessments were conducted to determine the effect of sample storage method and associated holding time on surface water nutrient concentrations from field sites. Six surface water sites and two nutrient spiked, laboratory water samples were evaluated for nitrate, nitrite, ammonium, filtered orthophosphorus, and total orthophosphorus concentrations on four separate days throughout the period of 1 year. Samples stored at ambient temperature (23°C) for 24 h prior to nutrient analyses resulted in 18 % ± 2 % of results being significantly different from controls (which were analyzed immediately upon collection). Samples placed in the cooler (4°C) for 7 days prior to nutrient analyses resulted in 30 % ± 1 % of values being significantly different from controls. Samples placed in the freezer (−20°C) for 7 days prior to analyses resulted in 34 % ± 12 %, 44 % ± 10 %, and 28 % ± 5.7 % of ammonium, filtered orthophosphate, and total orthophosphate, respectively, values being significantly different from controls. This study highlights the challenges facing researchers in efficient collection, storage and nutrient analysis of samples, especially when sites are remote and difficult to access .

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Acknowledgments

Thanks to Lisa Brooks for nutrient analyses. Mention of trade names or commercial products in this article is solely for the purpose of providing specific information and does not imply recommendation or endorsement by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). The USDA is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Water Quality and Ecology Research Unit, USDA-ARS National Sedimentation Laboratory, PO Box 1157, Oxford, MS, 38655, USA

    M. T. Moore & M. A. Locke

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  1. M. T. Moore
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  2. M. A. Locke
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Correspondence to M. T. Moore.

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Moore, M.T., Locke, M.A. Effect of Storage Method and Associated Holding Time on Nitrogen and Phosphorus Concentrations in Surface Water Samples. Bull Environ Contam Toxicol 91, 493–498 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00128-013-1084-6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00128-013-1084-6

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