Effects of spatial variation in benthic phototrophs along a depth gradient on assessments of whole‐lake processes

Abstract

Abstract Phytobenthos are often underrepresented in both limnological and paleolimnological studies but may play key roles in whole‐lake production and ecosystem processes including eutrophication, food‐web dynamics, and ecosystem state changes. Photosynthetic pigments, stables isotopes, and diatoms were quantified from surface sediments (0–1 cm) collected across a depth transect of a small, DOC‐rich, mesotrophic lake in boreal northwestern Ontario to assess spatial variation in phytobenthos abundance and production. Maximal concentrations of siliceous algae and cyanobacteria pigments occurred at ~2–6 m depth, with abundant tychoplanktonic diatoms, depleted sedimentary δ13C values, and elevated ratios of precursor chlorophyll a to product pheophytin a, all aligning well with the depths of the thermocline, epilimnetic mixing, and maximum light penetration. These patterns demonstrated the presence of three discrete community assemblages, with greatest mass accumulation occurring at intermediate depths where warm illuminated sediments provide habitat for tychoplanktonic diatoms and cyanobacteria between turbulent shallows and cold and dark depths. If widespread among boreal lakes, this tychoplanktonic zone may exert important effects on whole‐lake production, carbon sequestration, benthic‐pelagic food‐web coupling, eutrophication, and ecosystem state change.