TITLE:
Degradation Rates of Native versus Exotic Leaves in a Tributary of the Yellow River in Georgia
AUTHORS:
Bagie George, Christopher Brandon, Michael Erwin
KEYWORDS:
Exotic Species, Kudzu, Stream Health
JOURNAL NAME:
American Journal of Plant Sciences,
Vol.8 No.8,
July
28,
2017
ABSTRACT: Forested
aquatic streams depend heavily on forest canopy input. This input is a primary
resource for the macroinvertebrate fauna. As a result, changes in the canopy
impact the aquatic ecosystem. The focus of this study was to identify leaf
degradation rates to determine resource availability for invertebrate
communities. Specifically, leaf degradation rates were determined for oak, poplar,
maple and kudzu. Oak, poplar, and maple are established stream canopy
vegetation while kudzu is an invasive species. By comparing leaf degradation
rates of native vs. exotic leaves, it provides an insight to changes in
community structure. Furthermore, these changes in the plant canopy
biodiversity have long-term implications for stream health.