Seasonal Variability of the Elemental Stoichiometry of Phytoplankton in Two Eutrophic Bays of Lake Champlain
Abstract
This project will focus on cyanobacteria, a common type of bloom-forming phytoplankton in freshwater lakes, which can produce a variety of toxins. The elemental composition of cyanobacteria fluctuates seasonally and is often measured as deviation from the Redfield ratio (106:16:1; molar ratio of C:N:P). This project will investigate how the C:N:P ratios of phytoplankton in Lake Champlain change seasonally, in relation to cyanobacteria bloom formation and toxin production. By increasing understanding of under what elemental conditions toxins are produced, one can better predict toxic bloom occurrence, and communities along Lake Champlain can better prepare for these hazardous lake conditions.
Primary Faculty Mentor Name
Mindy Morales
Graduate Student Mentors
Kate Warner
Status
Undergraduate
Student College
College of Arts and Sciences
Program/Major
Environmental Sciences
Primary Research Category
Biological Sciences
Seasonal Variability of the Elemental Stoichiometry of Phytoplankton in Two Eutrophic Bays of Lake Champlain
This project will focus on cyanobacteria, a common type of bloom-forming phytoplankton in freshwater lakes, which can produce a variety of toxins. The elemental composition of cyanobacteria fluctuates seasonally and is often measured as deviation from the Redfield ratio (106:16:1; molar ratio of C:N:P). This project will investigate how the C:N:P ratios of phytoplankton in Lake Champlain change seasonally, in relation to cyanobacteria bloom formation and toxin production. By increasing understanding of under what elemental conditions toxins are produced, one can better predict toxic bloom occurrence, and communities along Lake Champlain can better prepare for these hazardous lake conditions.