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Submergent macrophytes: growth under winter ice cover.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|November 19, 1976
Summary
Ten aquatic plant species maintain high winter densities and productivity under ice cover, with winter photosynthesis at 10-20% of summer rates. This extensive winter productivity is rarely documented.
Area of Science:
- Aquatic botany
- Limnology
- Plant ecology
Background:
- Submergent macrophytes are crucial aquatic primary producers.
- Winter conditions under ice cover are often considered limiting for plant growth.
- Limited data exists on overwintering aquatic plant productivity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the in situ densities and productivity of submergent macrophyte species over three years.
- To identify species capable of maintaining high population densities and productivity during winter.
- To assess the photosynthetic activity of aquatic plants under winter ice cover.
Main Methods:
- In situ density measurements of 26 submergent macrophyte species.
- Regular monitoring over a three-year period.
- Use of self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (scuba) for data collection.
Main Results:
- Ten of the 26 studied species maintained high densities and productivity throughout winter.
- Maximum winter photosynthetic rates were observed to be 10-20% of summer rates.
- Significant aquatic plant productivity was confirmed beneath winter ice cover.
Conclusions:
- Certain submergent macrophyte species exhibit remarkable overwintering capabilities.
- Winter ice cover does not completely inhibit aquatic plant productivity.
- These findings highlight the ecological significance of under-ice macrophyte communities.
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