Periphyton is the basis for the everglades food web similar
to how phytoplankton is the basis for the oceans food web. Like phytoplankton,
it is a primary producer but is made up of more than one part; including algae,
fungi, microbes, bacteria, and plant detritus. It can be seen all throughout
the rivers that flow through the everglades and is even encouraged to be picked
up, rung out, and smelt to get a whiff of it’s importance. It is usually brown
and spongy in appearance and often wraps around the stems of the underwater
plants. It follows the pattern of phytoplankton’s cycle by being fed off by
smaller species who are then in turn preyed upon by the larger species, climbing
the proverbial food pyramid. Being that it is the start of this chain, it can cause
huge impacts to the ecosystem when abundance fluctuates. Usually periphyton is
most heavily affected by water quality within the everglades, the slightest changes
can lead to a serious decline.
But periphyton has more roles than just food for fish to “phyt”
over. During a dry season it can encrust the bed of the underwater grasses
helping to trap moisture in. Organisms will then inhabit the periphyton
community to maintain their moisture when the environment is driest. But many
species take up residence year-round any way because the periphyton makes a
perfect hidey home for all. It also creates a soil in the water used for many
plant’s roots. While periphyton photosynthesizes it absorbs the acid in the
water so the pH increases, causing the calcium in the water to solidify and
adhere to the periphyton or other plants and rocks. This calcium is actually
what mostly gives periphyton its brownish coloring. The organic material of the
periphyton is what eventually gets consumed, leaving behind the calcium deposits
that accumulate to create the soil.
Moral of the story is, although it might look just like some
boring brown slime, you are seeing the key to the Everglades environment. That
brown goop provides food and homes for all. Whenever you get the chance take a
ride down to the Everglades National Park to view the wondrous, awe-inspiring
Periphyton for yourself!
Sources and Links to Find Periphyton at a Place Near You:
Very interesting how it all works. Can’t wait to learn more.
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