The Effect Of Bacterial Grazers On Phosphorous Cycling

Abstract

The effect of grazers (protozoans) on the uptake of phosphorous by bacteria in streams was studied in artificial systems. Comparisons were made between systems with and without grazers. Grazers cause an initially faster uptake of phosphorous by bacteria. They depress the rate of phosphorous regeneration. In the presence of grazers, there are fewer bacteria, as indicated by a lower biomass. Applicability to natural systems is discussed.