Relationship Between Nutrient Limitation and Phytoplankton Community Structure in Tenkiller Ferry Lake

Abstract

Degradation of water bodies is an extensive problem. Combined with natural ontogeny of lakes and reservoirs, cultural eutrophication poses a significant threat to this nation's water resources. The deleterious impacts of these processes affect both abiotic and biotic components of aquatic systems, often with unfortunate results. Because these components are closely associated, it is imperative that both abiotic and biotic factors be considered in methods of restitution. In accordance, whether a system is driven by "top-down" or "bottom-up" mechanisms of population control, it is important to monitor primary producers and the environmental factors which affect them. This study addresses these issues in Tenkiller Ferry Lake. The interactions between primary producers and the aquatic environment have been researched extensively in the lab and predictable results are well established. Although certain trends in succession of dominant genera have been identified in the field, variable conditions generate more speculation since results are often site specific. This study should provide insights into these interactions and appropriate management strategies for optimal use of Tenkiller Ferry Lake.