Allison Rober

Ph.D. Candidate, Michigan State University

Field Travel Grant Type 1

Effects of Grazing and Nutrient Addition on Benthic Algal Primary Productivity in a Boreal Wetland

“Compared to the extensive literature on benthic algae in lakes and streams, there is little published information examining the benthic algal assemblages of freshwater wetlands or the factors that regulate their structure and function. This is particularly true for northern boreal regions where wetlands are abundant and are considered to be extremely vulnerable to disturbances associated with climate change. Currently, I am investigating in the spatial distribution of algae in high latitude wetlands, the role of abiotic (i.e. nutrients and light) and biotic (i.e. herbivory) factors in the regulation of algal primary productivity and community composition.”