Algae in Selected Illinois Streams, 1971-1976

Lin, S.D.; Evans, R.L.; Beuscher, Davis B.

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/77796 Copy

Description

Title

Algae in Selected Illinois Streams, 1971-1976

Author(s)

• Lin, S.D.
• Evans, R.L.
• Beuscher, Davis B.

Issue Date

1978

Keyword(s)

• Algae
• algal composition
• algal density
• algal succession
• diversity index
• Illinois streams
• water quality.

Abstract

During the 5-year period, October 1971 through September 1976, samples of water from 21 Illinois streams at 26 locations were collected monthly and examined to determine the concentration and genera of algae. Data have been evaluated for algal composition, density, diversity indices, and seasonal succession for each stream location. At most sampling locations, algal densities ranged from 500 to 2000 cts/ml. The 5-year geometric means extended from 880 to 1500 cts/ml. From 24 to 30 different algal genera were recovered from each station and, in all, 56 genera were detected. The average diversity index for each station ranged from 1.11 to 1.36 bits per individual. The highest density of 60,000 cts/ml occurred on July 11, 1975, in the Fox River at Algonquin. The diatoms Navicula and Cyclotella were the most frequently observed algae. In addition to these, the green algae Scenedesmus and Crucigenia and the diatom Melosira were often dominant. From sample to sample, season to season, and year to year, the genera found at any sampling station varied considerably. Generally, the annual maximum population occurred in the spring. However, the experience gained from this study supports the conclusion that it is impossible to predict algal density, composition, or succession in the flowing streams of Illinois.

Publisher

Illinois State Water Survey

Series/Report Name or Number

Report of Investigation (Illinois State Water Survey) RI-086

Type of Resource

text

Language

en

Permalink

http://hdl.handle.net/2142/77796

Copyright and License Information

Copyright, University of Illinois Board of Trustees. All rights reserved. This document is a product of the Illinois State Water Survey, and has been selected and made available by the Illinois State Water Survey and the University Library, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. It is intended for research and educational use, and proper attribution is requested.

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