Response of a submerged macrophyte (Vallisneria natans) to water depth gradients and sediment nutrient concentrations

Submerged plants constitute a vital component of shallow lake ecosystems, where water depth and sediment nitrogen‑phosphorus content are two key factors influencing their growth. This study focuses on Vallisneria natans and investigates the morphological and physiological changes of V. natans under the interaction of three water depth gradients and two different sediment nutrient levels. It explores the mechanisms through which varying sediment nutrient conditions under different water depths affect the growth of V. natans. The results indicate that both independent and interactive effects of water depth and sediment nutrient status significantly impact the morphology, antioxidant enzyme activity, and photosynthetic pigment content of V. natans, with water depth having a greater influence. To adapt to increased water depth-induced light stress, V. natans responds morphologically by increasing leaf length, leaf width, and decreasing maximum root length. Physiologically, it enhances its antioxidant regulation capacity and photosynthetic efficiency by increasing antioxidant enzyme activity, root vitality, and photosynthetic pigment content to counter weak light stress. However, these adaptations are insufficient to cope with excessively deep waters (200 cm). Sediment nutrient levels primarily control the growth of V. natans by affecting its root system. When sediment nitrogen and phosphorus content is lower, V. natans exhibits greater total root volume and surface area to enhance nutrient absorption efficiency. Water depth not only directly influences the growth of submerged plants but may also impact the migration and transformation of phosphorus in sediments, further exacerbating its effects on the growth of these plants, thus accelerating the regime shift of shallow lakes. Therefore, this study reveals V. natans' response strategies to varying water depths and sediment nutrient levels, determining suitable water levels and sediment nutrient conditions for its growth. These research findings provide a scientific basis for water level management and ecological restoration of submerged aquatic plants in shallow lakes.