Decomposition Studies in Two Central Ontario Lakes Having Surficial pHs of 4.6 and 6.6.

The rates of cellulose breakdown, composition of detrital microflora, and density of bacterial populations were determined in the epilimnetic sediments and water columns of two poorly buffered, oligotrophic, Canadian Shield lakes having mean surficial pHs of 4.6 (Bat Lake) and 6.6 (Harp Lake).

Microbial decomposition of cellulose in acidifying lakes of South-central ontario.

The rate of cellulose breakdown and density of bacterial populations were measured in the epilimnetic sediments and water columns of lakes in central Ontario that differ in pH, alkalinity, and nutrient status and are particularly sensitive to acidic inputs from atmospheric decomposition. There was no significant difference in decomposition rate in either oxic or anoxic sediment when mean epilimnetic pHs were in the range 5.5 to 6.