The use of the Shannon-Wiener diversity index to delineate the horizontal distribution of crustacean zooplankton communities in Lake Superior, 1973

The Shannon-Wiener diversity index was calculated for the total zooplankton community found in Lake Superior in 1973, as well as for its components (ie. Calanoida, Cyclopoida, Cladocera and nauplii). These values were then subjected to a model to develop statistically homogeneous zones, and to determine the temporal and spatial variability of the diversity values. A region roughly following the loo meter depth profile and having an average yearly temperature of 9.8°C was found to exist along the south and southwestern shores of Lake Superior. In this region significantly (P 0.10) higher diversity indices were found.