Effects of artificial substratum types and exposure time on macroalgal colonization in a tropical stream

Author(s)

Branco, Ciro C. Z. ^[1] ; Necchi, Jr., Orlando ^[2] ; Peres, Cleto K. ^[1]

Affiliation

^[1] Sao Paulo State Univ, UNESP, Dept Biol Sci, Lab Aquat Biol, BR-19806900 Assis, SP - Brazil

^[2] Sao Paulo State Univ, UNESP, Dept Bot & Zool, Lab Phycol, BR-15054000 Sao Jose Do Rio Preto, SP - Brazil

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Fundamental and Applied Limnology; v. 178, n. 1, p. 17-27, SEP 2010.
• Web of Science Citations: 9

Abstract

This study examines the development of the macroalgal community in a tropical stream on different artificial substrata (material and surface texture) and over varying periods of time. Our study indicated that the physical structure of the substratum did not affect species richness, but did alter the abundance of the macroalgal community. In addition, our results suggested that the amount of surface roughness could be an important factor driving the development of the macroalgal communities. The presence of a mucilaginous matrix with many diatoms and algal propagules on the surface of the substrata may have accelerated the colonization process. Macroalgal abundance peaked after 21 days of exposure. Generally, macroalgal species richness increased during the study period, however, a reduction in species richness was observed after 105 days of exposure, probably, as a result of competitive interactions. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 06/00890-2 - Evaluation of influence of different artificial substrate and exposition time to development of the biomass and floristic composition stability of the macroalgal community in a stream from center-west region of São Paulo State
• Grantee: Gustavo Juliano Arantes de Carvalho
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation