Development of an epiphyte indicator of nutrient enrichment: threshold values for seagrass epiphyte load.

ABSTRACT: Metrics of epiphyte load on macrophytes were evaluated for use as quantitative biological indicators for nutrient impacts in estuarine waters, based on review and analysis of the literature on epiphytes and macrophytes, primarily seagrasses, but including some brackish and freshwater rooted macrophyte species. An approach is presented that empirically derives threshold epiphyte loads which are likely to cause specified levels of decrease in macrophyte response metrics such as biomass, shoot density, percent cover, production and growth. Data from 36 studies of 10 macrophyte species were pooled to derive relationships between epiphyte load and -25 and -50% seagrass response levels, which are proposed as the primary basis for establishment of critical threshold values. Given multiple sources

SUBMITTER: Nelson WG 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6171120 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature