Periphyton Dynamics in Laboratory Streams: A Simulation Model and Its Implications

Abstract

A simple and an expanded model of periphyton dynamics in lotic environments are described. The simple model includes one level variable, the biomass of the periphyton assemblage, and four rate variables: primary production, community respiration, and two export fractions. In the expanded model three level variables and eight rate variables are added to the simple model to introduce the effects of allochthonous organic matter and grazing activities by an aquatic snail. In general, computer output from the expanded model supports the hypothesis that the relatively low biomasses of periphyton observed in the small streams of western Oregon are the result of grazing activities by aquatic animals, high silt loads during the fall and winter months, and the effects of a dense canopy of terrestrial vegetation on light penetration. Furthermore, the model indicates that it is bioenergetically feasible for a periphyton biomass of about 10 g m — 2 ash—free dry weight to support a consumer biomass of 150 g m — 2 or more if the productive capacity of the system is sufficient. The simulation models provided an analytical way of synthesizing the results of a number of experiments with periphyton assemblages, identified weaknesses in the experimental data, and provided insights into the dynamics of periphyton assemblages that could not be obtained by intuition alone or by examining the results of individual experiments.