Aquatic Plant Control Research Program. Culture Methodology for Experimental Investigations Involving Rooted Submersed Aquatic Plants

摘要

Recent information on the relative roles of sediment and water as nutrient sources for rooted submersed freshwater macrophytes has facilitated the development of a methodology for culturing these aquatic plants. The use of natural sediment as the source of nitrogen, phosphorus, and micronutrients, coupled with the omission of these nutrients from culture solution, largely prevents the occurrence of algal blooms and, for many purposes, obviates the use of elaborate axenic culturing techniques. Contemporary information on the growth of submersed macrophytes is reviewed in relation to the provision of conditions suitable for the laboratory culture of these plants. Sediment substrate requirements are considered in relation to the role of sediment as a nutrient source. Two culture solution formulations are provided along with procedures for solution preparation. Procedures for establishing and maintaining cultures are also provided. The information presented is intended to be of assistance in the establishment and maintenance of submersed macrophyte cultures for experimental research.