A survey of algal communities of Grass Bay.

Abstract

Grass Bay is a preserve of upland habitats and shoreline communities owned by the Nautre Conservancy. It is located east of Cheboygan, Michigan on the shore of Lake Huron. This area has been frequented and studied by many scientists and much is known about the macro communities. The aquatic resources in regards to microorganisms are understudied. Long-term monitoring of data is necessary for detecting trends and changes within aquatic communities. Algae are major suppliers of oxygen and form the basis for the global food web. They play an important role in the health of our natural world. This survey was undertaken to 1) provide The Nature Conservancy with baseline data concerning the algal populations of Grass Bay and to 2) initiate a potential project and a study area for future students interested in algae as biological indicators.