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Impact of nutrients and stormwater on periphyton in a shallow embayment

Periphyton is ever present in the marine environment, as is most simply, a complex mixture of micro-organisms. Nutrient cycling is a main function of periphyton, though this mechanism is entirely dependent on the taxonomical composition of the assemblage. When periphyton is exposed to large influxes of nutrients, there biomass can increase, possibly creating unfavourable living conditions for macrophytes such as seagrass. Like a number of developing coastal cities, Geographe Bay has witnessed a rapid population growth within a short time period. This population growth has facilitated more infrastructure along the coast, leading to an increase in nutrient loads entering the water ways. These increased loads could be stimulating the growth of periphyton within the bay, possibly leading to the decline of ecologically important seagrass meadows.

Ultimately the purpose of this study is to provide an assessment of the periphytic accumulations in Geographe Bay and to examine the role of storm water nutrients in controlling its abundance and composition. This will be achieved by answering two main research questions as follows:

  1. Does the abundance and taxonomic composition of periphyton assemblages on seagrass vary adjacent to and away from storm water discharge points?
  2. Does nutrient availability affect periphytic abundance or composition?

This research will ultimately provide knowledge which can be used to improve the management practices, ensuring better ecosystem health for Geographe Bay.

Funding Agency

Water Corporation
GeoCatch
Edith Cowan University

Project Duration

2017-2018

Researchers

Mr Connor Campbell (Masters student)
Dr Kathryn McMahon
Professor Paul Lavery
Dr Megan Huggett

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