Spatial variability of the decomposition rate of Schoenoplectus tatora in a polluted area of Lake Titicaca

摘要: Lake Titicaca is the largest freshwater lake in South America and one of highest oldest world's large lakes, but very little its ecology known. We report results from a study on spatial variation decomposition rate Schoenoplectus tatora Inner Puno Bay affected by direct wastewater discharges. The aims research were: (1) to evaluate effect benthos exclusion influence other environmental factors (2) map order describe heterogeneity water body. carried out at 21 sampling points using both fine-meshed coarse-meshed litterbags exclude allow detritivore action, respectively. Decomposition was average faster former than latter treatment. However, difference decreased with increasing abundance, reversed most densely populated waters bay. Coupled dependence temperature observed. Both variables were related distance discharges, suggesting that thermal pollution constrains within inner Detritivores did not change general trend imposed temperature, their presence increased process.