Laboratory culture of submersed freshwater macrophytes on natural sediments

Recent information on the relative roles of sediment and water as nutrient sources for rooted submersed freshwater macrophytes has facilitated the development of methods for culturing these plants. The use of natural sediments rather than culture solutions as the source of nitrogen, phosphorus and micronutrients largely prevents the occurrence of algal blooms and, for many purposes, obviates the need for axenic cultures.Growth requirements of submersed macrophytes are reviewed with regard to the provision of suitable culture conditions. Sediment substrate requirements are considered in relation to the role of sediment as a nutrient source. Two types of culture solution formulations are provided with procedures for establishing and maintaining submersed macrophyte cultures for experimental research.