Interspecific differences in reed litter decay, and aquatic macroinvertebrate colonisation (PhD Chapter 6)

A field-based litter bag experiment was used to examine the breakdown rates of litter from 2 common (indigenous) reedswamp forming species (Phragmites australis and Typha angustifolia), and its colonization by aquatic detritivores, in Lake Windermere, England (UK). Phragmites australis litter initially (after 21 days immersion) decayed at a faster rate than T. angustifolia; however, at the end of the 56 days immersion period, mass loss was the same for both species. Compared to T. angustifolia, P. australis supported a relatively high number of aquatic macroinvertebrates (mainly belonging to the shredder functional feeding group); however, this difference was temporary (< 21 days immersion). Comparisons of reed litter with a synthetic reed substitute suggested that reed litter acted as a food resource rather than providing refuge from predation and physical disturbance. Interspecific differences in the ability of detritus to resist macroinvertebrate shredding and scraping combined with differences in the timing and magnitude of litter production appear to be important factors in driving macroinvertebrate community assembly. By providing a mechanistic understanding of the influence of reed litter on macroinvertebrates, this study demonstrates the need for further research into the ecological consequences of changes in the coverage, and species composition of reedswamp habitat within lakes and other ecosystems.

2015-12-03

Citation of this data should be as follows:

Rushworth, Gary (2015): Interspecific differences in reed litter decay, and aquatic macroinvertebrate colonisation (PhD Chapter 6). Version:1. [dataset] Freshwater Biological Association [publisher]. doi:10.17865/fbads31