Application of a New Method for Quantitative Evaluation of Stream Benthic Algal Populations

摘要

Stream biota response to changing water quality or other ecosystem perturbations is an important means of assessing water quality, but the dynamic nature of streams produces significant sampling/measurement problems. However, smaller streams lack a true algal plankton subcommunity and attachment to stones and other stable surfaces at the substrate-water interface represents the major location for algae production. A newly-developed substrate sampler, composed of portland cement, was tested to determine residence time, qualitative similarity between natural/sampler populations, methods for determining primary algae production roles, seasonal succession, and colonization rates. This new approach has been applied, for comparative purposes, to two streams: one influenced by treated municipal sewage; the other, a non-impacted stream.