Gaytha A. Langlois, Professor of Environmental Policy, Bryant College
Ongoing Studies of Island Protozoa - Narragansett Bay & Buzzards Bay
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Freshwater Pond on Block Island
Overview of Island Studies
General Patterns of Island Biotic Dynamics
Island ponds are characterized by relative isolation & unique settings
Islands may have inherent limitations on size and spatial diversity
May be characterized by an absence of certain resources
Island species may be significantly differentiated from mainland species
Lowered biotic diversity may include reduced invertebrate predator pressure
Biotic communities may reflect the unique character of an island
Protozoan communities may therefore be characterized by unique biotic associations
These island studies are designed to explore microbial community dynamics
Role of Protozoa in Aquatic Food Chains
Bacteria and protozoa may account for 50% of benthic respiration
Protozoa show diverse patterns of interspecies interactions
May develop "symbiotic population control complexes"
Elaborated predator/prey relationships may be altered on islands
Effects of Land Use on Island Ponds
Greater human activity may result in increased contact with mainland species
Increased development may bring pollution and/or change evolutionary dynamics
Island ponds on developed islands may more closely resemble mainland ponds