SYMPOSIA PAPER Published: 01 January 1984
STP35226S

Relationships Between Aquatic Macrophytes and the Chemical and Physical Composition of the Substrate in Kahle Lake, Clarion-Venango Counties, Pennsylvania

Source

Excessive growth of Najas flexilis in Kahle Lake creates a threat to the natural aging process of the eight year old impoundment. An overwinter drawdown was performed in 1977, but was ineffective in controlling N. flexilis. The intent of this research was to investigate edaphic factors that may influence aquatic macrophyte establishment and abundance within the littoral zone of Kahle Lake.

Sampling areas were selected such that three sites were established in locations of abundant plant cover and three sites in locations of minimal plant growth. The variables measured included substrate particle size fractions, percentage organic matter, exchangeable cations, and aquatic macrophyte standing crop. Knowledge of significant habitat characteristics is pertinent to the application of control techniques designed to minimize plant infestation.

Plant and substrate samples were processed and data analyzed to determine variations between sampling sites. Nonparametric testing showed that mean percent gravel differed significantly between areas of abundant and minimal plant growth. Mean percent organic matter within the substrate did not differ among sites. Correlation analysis indicated that aquatic macrophyte standing crop and percent fine sand were significantly associated.

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McKenna, KA
, Creek Side, PA
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Developed by Committee: D19
Pages: 76–87
DOI: 10.1520/STP35226S
ISBN-EB: 978-0-8031-4909-0
ISBN-13: 978-0-8031-0204-0