Distribution pattern of epiphytic microcrustaceans in relation to different macrophyte microhabitats in a shallow wetland (Upo wetlands, South Korea)

Abstract

I n t e r n a t i o n a l J o u r n a l o f O c e a n o g r a p h y a n d H y d r o b i o l o g y AbstractMacrophytes determine the physical complexity of aquatic environments and provide a suitable habitat for colonization by microcrustaceans. We evaluated the effects of a seasonal growth pattern and structure of macrophyte species on epiphytic microcrustaceans collected from macrophyte surfaces (stems and leaves) in shallow wetlands from May 2011 to October 2012. In 2011, epiphytic microcrustaceans that preferred free-floating macrophytes (Spirodela polyrhiza and Salvinia natans) and submerged macrophytes (Potamogeton crispus and Ceratophyllum demersum) were affected by the seasonal growth of these species. Epiphytic microcrustaceans were abundant on the surface of Spirodela polyrhiza in June and August and on Salvinia natans in September and October. In 2012, epiphytic microcrustaceans preferred submerged macrophyte species over the free-floating ones. The results of stable isotope analysis showed that epiphytic microcrustaceans depend on epiphytic particulate organic matter (EPOM) from each macrophyte species rather than on suspended particulate organic matter. Small species (Coronatella rectangula, Pleuroxus laevis, and Chydorus sphaericus) used EPOM (dominated by epiphytic algae) on free-floating and submerged macrophyte species; however, relatively larger species (Ilyocryptus spinifer and Macrothrix rosea) used EPOM only from submerged macrophytes. Based on these findings, we conclude that the distribution of epiphytic microcrustaceans is determined by seasonal characteristics, morphology of macrophyte species, and abundance of food resources.

Effect of Gated Weir Opening on the Topography and Zooplankton Community of Geum River, South Korea

“…Previous studies also observed cladoceran species such as C. sphaericus and M. microcopa in wetlands and shallow reservoirs where aquatic macrophytes were abundant [36,61]. These cladoceran species are more epiphytic than pelagic swimmers such as Daphnia or Bosmina; thus, substrate surfaces, such as the leaves and stems of macrophytes, are important for their distribution [62]. Choi et al [63] suggested that the different leaf and stem structures of aquatic macrophytes (e.g., emergent, floating, and submerged macrophytes) could affect the temporal and spatial distribution of epiphytic zooplankton species.…”

Hydrological Characteristics and Trophic Status as Dominant Drivers of Rotifer Community Composition in Artificially Created Riverine Wetlands

“…Choi et al [ 43 ] suggested that the leaf or stem surface of aquatic macrophytes provides an appropriate substrate for epiphytic microinvertebrates. Moreover, epiphytic plankton attached to aquatic macrophytes are appropriate food sources for rotifers [ 44 ]. Areas well covered by aquatic macrophytes are also used as shelters for protection against physical disturbances, such as rainfall.…”

Changes in Antibiotic-Resistance Genes Induced by the Grazing Effect in Three Cladoceran Species

“…From this point, we speculate that D. obtusa might have reduced bacterial abundance while swimming over the entire range in each beaker. Choi et al [38] suggested that C. sphaericus and S. vetulus mainly consume…”

“…From this point, we speculate that D. obtusa might have reduced bacterial abundance while swimming over the entire range in each beaker. Choi et al [ 38 ] suggested that C. sphaericus and S. vetulus mainly consume algae attached to the leaves and roots of aquatic macrophytes, such as Ceratophyllum demersum and Salvinia natans in wetlands, whereas their contribution to pelagic food sources is relatively low due to their limited movement. Thus, C. sphaericus and S. vetulus consume only bacteria around their locations, which might have a relatively modest effect of reducing ARB and tet (A) abundance.…”