Macroinvertebrates were collected from a small midwestern stream over a 3-year period as part of a non-point source pollution study. Temporal and spatial variability in standard biotic index values (BIs) were computed and compared with variability expressed by a series of additional community measurements, including the mean tolerance value of all taxa present in a sample, irrespective of the numerical abundance of individual taxa. The mean tolerance value exhibited lower spatial and temporal variability than the standard BI; therefore, mean tolerance values may be useful in estimating a stream\u27s long-term ambient water quality and its recovery potential. Computations of additional BI metrics are easily accomplished with no additional lab work required, and comparisons of mean tolerance values with standard BIs should aid investigators in interpreting changes in water quality
