We have just concluded a partial lake survey with an intro ecology class
here in Indiana.  We had them sample algae, zooplankton, DO, Temp, benthic
organisms, light energy, and aquatic macrophytes.  We had never done the
macrophytes before but because the lake has such a large growth of Chara in
its littoral we thought that we should sample them.  We had them take 1
square meter quadrant samples, dry it, and measure its dry weight for an
estimation of grams of Chara/m2.  Now we are kind of stumped.  All of our
other biological data that we have collected is in density per numbers, not
weight.  Does anyone have a suggestion as to what we can dowith this data?
I have been reading and finding some info on productivity but our students
wouldn't understand.  There is a large stunted bluegill population in the
lake and am sure that the heavy Chara growth helps increase their survival
greatly.  Does anyone know if there is info on some kind of ratio on amount
of littoral cover needed to sustain a balanced bluegill population?  I know
that is kind of a stab in the dark but I am looking for anything!

Thanks in advance for any help.

Jon Eynon

Jon Eynon
Graduate Student
Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis
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