This study uses periphyton abundance and phytoplankton assemblage as bioindicators of productivity to examine the change in water quality in Christina Lake between contemporary and historic data. Phytoplankton data are taken at the South Basin pelagic site in spring and summer and periphyton data from five littoral sites in fall in 2006. The phytoplankton data differed from the historical data with an increase in algal abundance, and a decrease in biodiversity. Periphyton data displayed an increasing trend in chlorophyll a concentrations. The analysis indicates the periphyton and phytoplankton biotic community structures may reflect changes in lake productivity. Due to the infrequent monitoring and contrasting signals from secondary parameters, the findings are not definitive. Additional monitoring is recommended to further investigate trends. This study applies the results to propose methods of local action and community participation to maintain a sustainable aquatic ecosystem in Christina Lake.
展开▼
