Date of Award
Spring 2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Biology
Abstract
Diatoms, a group of algae with cell walls made of silica, are important bioindicators for all freshwater bodies as they are sensitive to changes in the environment. They can be used for ecological monitoring of an area. This research focuses on studying the sediments of an inactive fish hatchery in Millen, Georgia that was recently used for research through the USFWS and Georgia Southern University. As part of a previous study from Georgia Southern, diatoms were identified to family level and nutrient data were collected and assessed following changes in inundation comparing temporarily and permanently flooded ponds. Species level identification was compared to the previous identification and provides a water quality analysis based on diatom taxa. Staurosira construens Ehrenberg was found to be the most dominant taxa regardless of the temporary versus permanent inundation. The high abundance of S. construens prompted further ecological study. Middle Georgia holds a substantial amount of diversity as it falls on the Fall Line. By documenting the species in the area, it allows for a consistent voucher flora that can continuously be updated and monitored by other professionals. Middle Georgia was sampled for all groups of algae in both Fall 2023 and Summer 2024. Composite samples from Lake Sinclair, Lake Oliver Hardy and a man-made pond on the campus of GCSU behind Baldwin County High School were sampled and processed following standard protocol. Samples were identified to lowest taxonomic level and used for community analyses.
Recommended Citation
Agi, Anna, "Primary producers in biodiversity assessment through time and hydrological variation" (2025). Biology Theses. 42.
https://kb.gcsu.edu/biology/42