Factors Affecting Growth of Rooted Aquatic Plants in a Reservoir

Abstract

Water samples were taken from Pickwick Reservoir from 1965 through 1968 and the nitrogen and phosphorus content determined. The nitrogen and phosphorus content over a period of 3 years was not related to the year-to-year plant growth. Physical and climatic data were obtained from 1961 through 1968, and it was found that available light was controlled by the amount of rainfall and ensuing reservoir elevation during the critical plant growth period in April and May. Available light was correlated with the 2 years of severe infestations.