The effects of light intensity on epipelic algae and associated fauna.

Abstract

While it is an important habitat in Northern Michigan streams, benthic fine particulate organic matter, or FPOM, has been neglected by researchers. This project's aim was to examine and describe the FPOM and its associated algae and meiofauna. The effect of light intensity on the benthic FPOM was tested, both by manipulating light levels at the UMBS Stream Research Facility, and by examining natural FPOM habitats in the Maple River under different light regimes. Both the algal and the meiofaunal communities were quantified. Evidence for bottom up regulation of the food web was found.