INVESTIGATIONS ON NUTRIENT FACTORS LIMITING PHYTOPLANKTON PRODUCTIVITY IN TWO CENTRAL VIRGINIA PONDS1

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Abstract
Laboratory and field studies were initiated to evaluate at regular intervals by 14C and chlorophyll enrichment bioassay some of the nutrients, particularly ammonia, that might limit phytoplankton photosynthesis in two central Virginia ponds. Preliminary comparisons of the phytoplankton, their production, and the chemical characteristics of the water were determined. Ammonia, phosphate, nitrate, iron, carbon dioxide, silica and chloride differed most markedly among the various nutrients analyzed. Investigations were continued to compare the validity of using field and laboratory ecosystem work to predict changes in trophic levels resulting from nutrient enrichment, i.e., eutrophication. Laboratory experiments using aquatic microecosystems and field experiments employing in situ plastic cylinders and battery jars support the view that ammonia is a key factor regulating “trophic” features in these two ponds.