The spatial and temporal distribution of an epiphytic algal community in a shallow prairie‐parkland lake – Alberta, Canada

Abstract

In Hastings Lake (longitudes 113°15′ and 53°50′N), a shallow eutrophic lake, the spatial and temporal changes in species composition. diversitv. standing crops, and primary productivity of the epiphytic algae attached to Phragmnes australis and Scirpus validus were investigated in relation to the physico‐chemical environment. Of the dominant species, cyanophycean algae (Lyngbya diguetii and Calothrix sp.) developed best in the 25 cm region below the water surface, while the chlorophycean alga, Stigeoclonium nanum and the diatoms (Cocconeis placentula, Gomphonema parvulum and Rhoicosphenia curvata) did so in the 50 cm and 75 cm regions, respectively. Certain dominant species persisted throughout, interrupted by “shock periods” which created spring, summer, and autumn peaks. Species diversity indices increased with depth, and generally decreased spring through winter. Standing crop maxima occurred within the top 25 cm of the host stems, and showed spring and larger autumn peaks before declining to low. yet significant winter levels. Productivity, too, was greatest in the top 25 cm region, and again peaked in the spring and autumn. Cross incubation studies elucidated vertical and seasonal relationships among productivity, photosynthetic index, and efficiency, and productivity efficiency. An interplay of “sun and shade” adapted populations within the community was found. The epiphytic algae displayed but a muted seasonal response to physico‐chemical fluctuations: however, there was an association with overall nutrient changes as determined by meq HCO3−I−1.