Title:
Breakdown Rates of Tulip-poplar Leaves in Streams Draining Suburban Watersheds
Breakdown Rates of Tulip-poplar Leaves in Streams Draining Suburban Watersheds
Author(s)
Herbert, Susan
Meyer, Judy L.
Armbrust, Kevin
Shuman, Larry M.
Meyer, Judy L.
Armbrust, Kevin
Shuman, Larry M.
Advisor(s)
Editor(s)
Hatcher, Kathryn J.
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Abstract
Leaf litter inputs are an integral part of stream food webs. Changes to this basic food resource from natural or anthropogenic causes can have
repercussions at higher trophic levels. Stormwater
runoff from residential lawns transports pesticides and
fertilizers to stream ecosystems. This study measures
leaf breakdown rates in two suburban streams in Peachtree City, Georgia, and considers if fungicide or
nutrient concentrations have impacted those rates.
Leaf breakdown rates in these suburban streams were compared with breakdown rates in two reference
streams. We analyzed stream temperature and
concentrations of ammonium, nitrate, soluble reactive
phosphorus, and selected pesticides. Relationships
between these parameters and breakdown rates of
tulip-poplar leaves (Liriodendron tulipifera L.) were
examined. Surprisingly, nitrate, ammonium and
hydroxychlorothalonil (a fungicide degradation
product) concentrations were somewhat higher in the
reference streams. Leaf breakdown rates for the first
seven weeks were similar in three streams and lower in one of the reference streams. Differences in nutrient
and pesticide concentrations were not consistent and
could not explain observed differences in leaf
breakdown rates.
Sponsor
Sponsored and Organized by: U.S. Geological Survey, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Natural Resources Conservation Service, The University of Georgia, Georgia State University, Georgia Institute of Technology
Date Issued
2001-03
Extent
Resource Type
Text
Resource Subtype
Proceedings