Groundwater flow influences the biomass and nutrient ratios of epibenthic algae in a north temperate seepage lake

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

5-1998

Department

Department of Biological Sciences

Abstract

Groundwater flow influenced epibenthic algal biomass and N:P ratios at a seepage lake (Sparkling Lake, Wisconsin). During seasonal studies, biomass and seepage flux were positively associated (r = 0.453; P < 0.001). Pore-water soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) concentrations (29.2-110.7 μg PO4 liter-1), SRP fluxes, and algal biomass were significantly higher at high groundwater discharge sites than at low flow sites ( < 10.0 to 27.7 μg PO4 liter-1). Pore-water ammonia (NH3) concentrations were significantly lower at high groundwater discharge sites ( < 10.0 to 566.0 μg NH3 liter-1) than at low groundwater discharge and recharge sites (61.4-1464.9 μg NH3 liter-1). The coupling between pore-water nutrient concentrations and local groundwater flow dynamics suggests a mechanism for the observed spatial patterns in biomass. In situ experimental chambers evaluated coupling between epibenthic algal biomass, N:P ratios, and groundwater flow patterns. Biomass responded rapidly in chambers, reaching ambient levels within 1.5 months of initiation. Free-flow Chambers in discharge regions had consistently higher soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP), NO3-NO2, and O2 concentrations, higher phosphate and nitrate-nitrite fluxes, higher algal biomass, and lower N:P ratios in the developing mat. Free-flow chambers in recharge regions had high ammonia (NH3) concentrations, lower algal biomass, and higher N:P ratios. These results confirm that groundwater-related nutrient fluxes influence the local physicochemical environment and affect epibenthic algal biomass.

Publication Title

Limnology and Oceanography

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