Phytoplankton trends in the Great Lakes, 2001–2011

摘要: Abstract We describe recent trends in phytoplankton composition and abundance the Laurentian Great Lakes using synoptic spring (April) summer (August) sampling events from 2001 through 2011, a period of rapid shifts pelagic food webs water quality. Data analysis identified qualitative quantitative changes algal densities, biovolume, taxonomic assemblages. Since 2001, Lake Superior has changed subtly with an increase small-celled blue-green algae decline centric diatoms, possibly result lake warming Spring declines mainly attributed to diatoms occurred Huron Michigan, probable invasions by non-native dreissenids that have reduced nutrients selectively consumed certain taxa. The Huron's biovolume was earlier more severe than despite faster abundant dreissenid invasion Michigan. Erie's central basin had notable (largely Aulacoseira ), while whole Erie shows cyanobacteria, complementing found coastal regions. Ontario's species assemblage shifted, but little overall change observed exception higher densities cyanophytes. Additional mechanisms for primary producers are described or hypothesized context concurrent quality invertebrate populations. Tracking these explaining driving factors will be critical management conditions.