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Vertical distribution and abundance of benthic invertebrates in profundal sediments of Mondsee, with special reference to oligochaetes

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Abstract

Two profundal sediment sites at the same depth (MO1 and MO7) in Lake Mondsee differed considerably in their trophic conditions. Based on organic carbon (weight loss on ignition) and redox values, MO1 sediments could be classified as eutrophic, MO7 sediment as oligo- to mesotrophic. Investigations on abundance, diversity and vertical distribution of meio- and macrofauna exhibited distinct differences between the two sampling sites. MO7 showed a much higher diversity than MO1. Seven species of ostracods and oligochaetes respectively, were found at MO7, but only two species of oligocheates at MO1. The vertical distribution of meiofauna at MO7 corresponded to redox values. Chironomids were found in the uppermost 4 cm of sediments. Oligochaetes penetrated 15 to 20 cm into the sediment. Nearly 100% of the adult oligochaetes and cocoons occurred only below the first three centimeters of sediment. Their distribution patterns are discussed.

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  1. Institut für Zoologie, Universität Wien, Abt. Limnologie Althanstr. 14, A - 1090, Wien, Austria

    Peter Newrkla & Nita Wijegoonawardana

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  1. Peter Newrkla
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  2. Nita Wijegoonawardana
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Newrkla, P., Wijegoonawardana, N. Vertical distribution and abundance of benthic invertebrates in profundal sediments of Mondsee, with special reference to oligochaetes. Hydrobiologia 155, 227–234 (1987). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00025655

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