Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/1959.11/8448
Title: Linking pattern and process: the effects of hydraulic conditions on cobble biofilm metabolism in an Australian upland stream
Contributor(s): Reid, Michael  (author)orcid ; Thoms, Martin  (author)orcid 
Publication Date: 2006
Handle Link: https://hdl.handle.net/1959.11/8448
Abstract: Mesoscale variability in hydraulic conditions plays an important role in stream ecosystem structure and function. While the structural effects of variability have been widely tested, its influence on ecosystem processes is less well understood. This study examines the influence of spatial hydraulic variability on cobble biofilm metabolism in a regulated Australian upland stream. Primary production and respiration on stream cobbles forming the substrate in areas subject to three different flow conditions were measured using benthic chambers. Overall the cobble biofilms were found to be strongly autotrophic (P/R >> 1). Rates of respiration and, to a lesser extent, production were greatest where flow velocities and turbulence were low. Concentrations of chlorophyll a, pheophytin a and organic material were also highest in areas of lowest flow velocities. Hydraulic conditions did not affect P/R ratios. The degree of autotrophy is likely to reflect the effects of a recent fire in reducing shading and increasing nutrient influx. The observed spatial patterns can be partly explained by the greater accumulation of biomass in low flow velocity areas, but qualitative differences in biofilms are also likely to be important.
Publication Type: Conference Publication
Conference Details: IAHS/ICCE International Symposium 2006: International Commission on Continental Erosion of the International Association of Hydrological Sciences International Symposium on Sediment Dynamics and the Hydromorphology of Fluvial Systems, Dundee, Scotland, 2nd - 7th July, 2006
Source of Publication: Sediment Dynamics and the Hydromorphology of Fluvial Systems, p. 322-330
Publisher: IAHS Press
Place of Publication: Wallingford, United Kingdom
Fields of Research (FoR) 2008: 040601 Geomorphology and Regolith and Landscape Evolution
Socio-Economic Objective (SEO) 2008: 960506 Ecosystem Assessment and Management of Fresh, Ground and Surface Water Environments
Peer Reviewed: Yes
HERDC Category Description: E1 Refereed Scholarly Conference Publication
Publisher/associated links: http://trove.nla.gov.au/work/20095286
http://www.iahs.info/redbooks/306.htm
Series Name: IAHS Publication
Series Number : 306
Appears in Collections:Conference Publication
School of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences

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