Aquatic Plant Control Research Program: Effects of Submersed Aquatic Macrophytes on Physical and Chemical Properties of Surrounding Water
Abstract
Studies were conducted to characterize physical and chemical gradients in submersed macrophyte beds located in limnologically contrasting environments--Eau Galle Reservoir, Wisconsin, and the Potomac River near Washington, DC. Various environmental factors were examined over specific periods at discrete depths to elucidate the effects of aquatic macrophytes on habitat conditions. Submersed aquatic macrophytes had both passive and active roles in influencing the physical and chemical attributes of their environment. Mixing of surface-heated water to lower depths was reduced as macrophytes became more abundant during the growing season. Intense metabolic activity significantly altered profiles of oxygen and pH within macrophyte beds as compared with open waters. In both study areas depthwise gradients in water temperature, dissolved oxygen, and pH exhibited strikingly greater variations over daily cycles in macrophyte beds than in adjacent open water. From results of these studies it is apparent that submersed macrophytes create distinct physical and chemical conditions that may influence the local distribution of other organisms. The steepening of environmental gradients by submersed macrophytes over both depth and time adds significantly to the complexity of the aquatic habitat. Keywords: Hydrilla, Nutrients, Water quality, Chlorophyll.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA203108
Entities
People
- Gordon L. Godshalk
- John W. Barko
- Nancy B. Rybicki
- Virginia Carter