SEDIMENT INTERACTIONS WITH SUBMERSED MACROPHYTE GROWTH AND COMMUNITY DYNAMICS

We review and synthesize information available in the literature on sediment interactions with submersed macrophyte growth and community dynamics. Sources of particular nutrients for uptake by submersed macrophytes are critically evaluated. Sediment physical and chemical properties are considered as a product of macrophyte growth as well as potential delimiters of growth. Aspects of macrophyte nutrition that influence littoral nutrient dynamics and macrophyte community composition are highlighted, with attention to factors affecting sediment nutrient availability. Interactive effects of sediment nutrient depletion, sedimentation, bioturbation, and microbial activity on macrophyte growth are emphasized. Major linkages and feedbacks between aquatic macrophytes and sediment properties are considered in terms of elemental exchanges and responses at the ecosystem level. Changes in macrophyte community composition during lake aging, or over relatively shorter time periods, are suggested to occur partially in response to altered sediment properties.