Abstract
Research on aquatic macrophytes has advanced significantly in Brazil, however, there is still a need for floristic studies, particularly related to the dynamic distribution in coastal lakes. This study assessed the composition and distribution of macrophytes in Lake Restinga Massiambu. From 2004 to 2007 surveys were done to characterize the composition, structure and life forms of plant species. Samples of cover vegetation, slope, water level and maximum depth were recorded in 2006 and 2007. A total of 63 species were identified, including 48 pure life forms and 15 in combination. The lake had high species richness represented by the occurrence of new taxa in both the area and statewide. In the quantitative study there was greater richness in the shallower zones of the lake, where the gradient and the change of the water level create a greater diversity of habitats. The depth showed to a good predictor of diversity and richness. The slope and community structure are associated, changing together. The species have amplitude of occurrence tending to develop greater coverage in preferential depth. The distribution of the composition and structure of the macrophytes described spatial patterns, which can be corroborated in other studies of shallow lakes.
Key words:
shallow costal lake; aquatic macrophytes; preferential depth; spatial patterns; community structure