Environmental control of the dominant phytoplankton in Aras Reservoir (Iran): A multivariate approach
2015
Mohebbi, Fereidun | Riahi, Hossein | Sheidaei, Masoud | Shariatmadari, Zeinab | Manaffar, Ramin
This study was undertaken to determine the phytoplankton structure and the environmental variables comprising the driving factors leading to cyanobacterial blooms in Aras Reservoir. Sampling was carried out seasonally at five sampling sites along the main body of the reservoir. Samples were collected for phytoplankton identification and enumeration, chemical analyses and chlorophyll‐a (Chl‐a) concentrations at each sampling site. Principal component analysis (PCA) and two‐way unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) were performed to determine the environmental variables affecting phytoplankton community dynamics. Seventy‐two species belonging to five divisions were determined during this study. Cyanobacteria contained the highest density (74%) during the study period, with Pseudanabaena limnetica being the most abundant species. The Shannon diversity index was low (0.44–1.87), indicating a high level of cyanobacteria dominance and eutrophic water status. Principal component analysis indicated that total phosphorus and temperature were significantly associated with cyanobacteria growth. Two‐way clustering by UPGMA indicated a close relationship among sampling sites during the same season from the perspective of the phytoplankton density. The findings of this study suggested Aras Reservoir could be highly affected by agricultural runoff and untreated sewage loadings. Thus, the proper use of fertilizers and sewage treatment should be taken into account in considering effective conservation and management plans.
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