Influence of slight differences in environmental conditions (light, hydrodynamics) on the structure and function of periphyton |
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Authors: | A Villeneuve B Montuelle A Bouchez |
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Institution: | 1. Laboratoire de Microbiologie Aquatique, INRA, INRA UMR CARRTEL, BP 511, 74203, Thonon Cedex, France 2. Cemagref, UR Qualité de Eaux, 3 Quai Chauveau, CP 220, 69336, Lyon cedex 09, France
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Abstract: | Small streams are ecosystems mainly controlled by physical factors. Minor differences in these factors can affect periphyton,
which are key functional communities in these ecosystems. Eight different environmental conditions combining two types of
current, two flow velocities and two light intensities were produced and controlled in artificial channels. Their impact on
young and mature periphyton was investigated during a 6-week exposure period. The two different levels of light intensity
produced early effects on the algal community. In young periphyton, the lower level of light intensity enhanced the number
of algal cells, and this community appeared to be significantly structured by light. As the periphyton matured, the effects
of physical factors became more marked. At this later stage, both the bacterial and algal communities began to be affected.
Both function (primary production) and structure began to respond to differences in light and in flow velocity. Small differences
in low-level environmental factors, such as light and flow, had an effect both on the structure of periphyton and its functional
capacities. Keeping in mind the close link between diversity and function in microbial communities, periphyton confronted
to various environmental stresses (pollution, flooding) in the field may behave differently due to minor differences in physical
factors. |
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