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Analysis and structure of four lentic communities on the Colorado (U.S.A.) shortgrass prairie
Author(s) -
Herrmann Scott J.
Publication year - 1977
Publication title -
internationale revue der gesamten hydrobiologie und hydrographie
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.524
H-Index - 52
eISSN - 1522-2632
pISSN - 0020-9309
DOI - 10.1002/iroh.1977.3510620602
Subject(s) - seston , lake ecosystem , phytoplankton , ecology , habitat , environmental science , nutrient , hydrology (agriculture) , environmental chemistry , geology , chemistry , biology , geotechnical engineering
Four natural lentic habitats on the Central Plains Experimental Range in Colorado were intensively studied physically, chemically, and biologically for 2 yr (1968–1970) and intermittently for 5 (1971–1975). Lynn Lake and Lake George were chosen as examples of ephemeral or temporary sites, while Cottonwood Pond and Spring Pond were chosen as permanent habitats. Chemically, the waters of each site were analytically separated into dissolved and suspended (sestonic) components. The temporary sites were characterized by their exceptionally high seston loads, the presence of Eubranchiopoda, the prevalence of Ca as the major dissolved cation, ana the high Fe content of their sediments. The two permanent sites, on the other hand, had high total dissolved salt content, rich and varied flora and fauna, Na as the prevalent cation in the dissolved fraction, and high Ca content in the sediments. All four of the sites were “seston digesters” with large amounts of wind‐blown organic material being entrapped, decomposed, and mineralized. By comparison with adjacent soils the sediments of all four basins were much richer in K, Zn, Fe, Cu, and Mn. Both temporary and permanent sites function as nutrient sinks. Rates of daily and annual phytoplankton primary productivity are reported for the two permanent sites.