Abstract
Largemouth bass nesting disturbance significantly affected the distribution and abundance of macroinvertebrates in the littoral zone of Lake Wedington, AR. The total average densities and richness of benthic invertebrates were significantly greater outside than inside the nest areas throughout the reproductive period. Chironomidae, Oligochaeta, and Ephemeroptera dominated the samples, and densities of these invertebrates were consistently greater outside nests throughout this period. However, these alterations were transient and the recovery from the disturbance was observed within ten days following completion of largemouth bass nesting. The frequency and predictability of nesting disturbance and nature of disturbed substrate seem to be the factors affecting the persistence of the disturbance effects.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 333-341 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | Journal of Freshwater Ecology |
Volume | 13 |
Issue number | 3 |
Publication status | Published - Sept 1998 |
Externally published | Yes |