CHARACTERIZING BENTHIC AND PLANKTONIC CYANOBACTERIA DYNAMICS IN KEJIMKUJIK NATIONAL PARK

Abstract

Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site contains over 46 pristine lakes and several interconnected rivers and streams, providing habitat for wildlife and recreational activities. Cyanobacteria are an increasing concern in Atlantic Canada due to their association with numerous canine mortalities. This study is the first to exclusively investigate cyanobacteria dynamics within the park. Planktonic cyanobacteria communities were assessed in 18 lakes and did not dominate microbial communities, although their occurrence followed distinct environmental thresholds. Cyanobacteria were more commonly detected in lakes with total phosphorus <12 μg/L, total organic carbon <10 mg/L, and pH levels > 5.5. Benthic cyanobacteria communities were assessed in two brooks and one lake and were a dominant component of the biofilm. Low-level anatoxins (<120 ng/g) and microcystins (<220 ng/g) were detected in biofilm samples. These findings improve our understanding of cyanobacteria communities as well as their toxin production in minimally impacted systems in Atlantic Canada.