Effects of Aeration on Periphytic Organisms in McCargo Lake, Fancher, New York

Abstract

The experimental objective was to explore what effects aeration might have on periphytic growth and development. Previous investigators devised aerated and nonaerated experimental chambers capable of withstanding both summer storms and the rigors of winter weather. In this study it was proposed to develop a periphytic sampler that would allow both visual observation and gravimetric measurement of the growth of aquatic microorganisms that grow commonly attached to submerged objects. These organisms are referred to usually as periphyton. The periphytic sampler was suspended in each of the chambers and in an open water situation as a control. Details of the project and description of the lake are discussed under Methods and Procedures.