Algal recolonization following an extraordinary drought in permanent lowland streams

Abstract

Droughts reduce habitat and fragment the continuity of running water systems producing lasting effects on sediment biota and affecting density and biomass of algae. When droughts occur, the survival of algae and cyanobacteria of the biofilm depends on different alternatives to overcome the stress. In Pampean streams, periods of low flow causing desiccation stress in the biofilm may be linked to El Niño/Southern Oscillation phenomenon, and to water management practices (irrigation and extraction), that can reduce stream base flows for prolonged periods, reducing wetted area and dewatering the stream bed. The aim of this study was to determine the response of epipelic algae (analyzed by greater algal groups Cyanobacteria, Euglenophyta, Dinoflagellates, Green Algae, Diatoms) to desiccation as a disturbance, in streams without frequent periods of drought. First, we studied the in situ vertical distribution of epipelic algae in stream sediment during the drought period as a refuge strategy, along with the vertical distribution of sediment humidity in 10 cm sediment corers divided in 6 segments at depths 0-1 cm (uppermost layer), 1-2 cm, 2-3 cm, 3-4 cm, 4-5 cm and 5-10 cm. Secondly, we analyzed the recolonization patterns of the epipelic algal assemblage after the drought by studying the succession of autotrophic organisms, in order to better understand the role of sediments as a source of algae populations. For this, 2 cm deep corers were placed with water in microcosms and monitored during 2 weeks. Our results indicate that when the streams are affected by a severe drought, algae and cyanobacteria survive; this could be related with the moisture content of the sediment. Besides, after hydratation of the sediment, the community rapidly increased its density. Cyanobacteria were the most resistant group to desiccation and the one who had the faster reaction to hydratation.