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Recording the width and depth of a Class 4 stream. |
Image: Joanne Clapcott. |
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Sampling methods are adapted to suit the very small streams being studied. Here a grid is used to assess geomorphology, and micro-chambers are deployed to measure benthic metabolism. |
Image: Joanne Clapcott. |
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Project summary:
This project, which now forms part of a larger, longer-term study, aims to investigate metabolic processes in headwater streams of Tasmania, as well as the potential changes in these processes as a consequence of forestry harvest practice. Of particular focus will be benthic metabolism (or the amount of carbon produced/decomposed on the stream bed).
This research will provide the baseline measurements of a BACI-design project to be adopted by forestry partners.
Methodology: The project consists of two major scales of investigation. First, a state-wide survey incorporates three predominant geologies on which forestry is located in the State as it is hypothesised that the parent geology may be responsible for some natural spatial variability in stream processes. Sites subject to recent forestry harvesting will also be sampled to investigate the potential effects of forestry on benthic metabolism.
Future sampling will incorporate streams in catchments subject to harvesting over a long historical time series to investigate the rate of recovery of headwater streams following disturbance. Second, a long-term comparative study will also be established, employing measures of ecosystem metabolism that have been proven to detect the effects of differing forestry management practices during harvesting (monitoring tools).
Conducting sampling four times throughout the year will incorporate any variability associated with seasonal differences and diel sampling will provide information of day-night variation.
Datasets: None available.
Publications: Clapcott, J.E. (2007). The metabolic signature of small headwater streams: natural variability and the response to forestry. Doctoral thesis, University of Tasmania.
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