Regional climatic drivers of synchronous zooplankton dynamics in north-temperate lakes

• DOI: 10.1139/f08-043
• Publication Date: 2008-04-17T09:44:46Z
• Authors: James A Rusak; Norman D Yan; Keith M Somers
• Keywords: 0106 biological sciences; 13. Climate action; 15. Life on land; 01 natural sciences

The role that climate plays in determining the temporal dynamics of freshwater zooplankton is poorly understood, despite its potential to synchronize population on a regional basis. We quantify spatial synchrony common taxa among lakes Dorset, Ontario, area and investigate climatic mechanisms responsible for these patterns at both annual seasonal scales. show several are characterized by similar abundance across region, suggesting synchronising effect abundances. Using multiple regression analyses compare with in-lake variables, we find El Niño – Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events ice cover variability most important predictors scales, particularly Leptodiaptomus Bosmina. Leptodiaptomus, dominant herbivore lakes, had decreased abundances years earlier ice-off dates shorter periods cover. Secchi depth was also synchronous appeared respond meteorological factors (spring temperature precipitation, duration). A warming ability modify ENSO dynamics, as well precipitation patterns, may alter structure communities north-temperate lakes.