Algal richness and life‐history strategies are influenced by hydrology and phosphorus in two major subtropical wetlands
Abstract
We explored controls of algal taxon richness (hereafter richness) in complex and hydrologically dynamic flood‐pulsed wetlands by comparing results from independent studies in two globally important subtropical wetlands: the Okavango Delta (Botswana) and the Florida Everglades (U.S.A.). In both wetlands, the flood pulse hydrology is regulated by distinct wet and dry seasons, and creates floodplain landscapes with heterogeneous habitats; algal growth is limited by phosphorus (P); and water uses threaten ecosystem function. To inform future comparisons of algal richness and distribution patterns, we assessed the role of hydrology and P as key controls of richness, and identified indicator taxa of desiccation disturbance and P scarcity in these wetlands under increasing hydrological, nutrient, and habitat changes.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Pub Defense Publication
- Publication Date
- Dec 22, 2016
- Source ID
- 10.1111/fwb.12866
Entities
People
- Anson W. Mackay
- Evelyn E. Gaiser
- Franco A. C. Tobias
- Luca Marazzi
- Vivienne J. Jones
Organizations
- Florida International University
- Royal Geographical Society
- United States Army Corps of Engineers
- University College London