Interactions of Eurasian water-milfoil and sediments in an East Tennessee reservoir

Texture of the sediments varied between sites, and nutrient content and organic matter content of the sediments varied on both a site and seasonal basis. The study site off the main channel of the reservoir was distinctly different from the main channel sites, particularly in phosphorus and organic matter levels. The interactions of watermilfoil and the sediments were examined. Significant relationships between sediment nutrient and texture characteristics, and standing crop and nutrient content of watermilfoil were found. Sediment phosphorus was found to play an important role in influencing phosphorus, nitrogen and potassium levels in the plant tissue. Field and laboratory analysis indicated that standing crop is not as tightly coupled to sediment nutrient status as nutrient levels in the plant tissue.