Iron overload consequences for submerged plants stoichiometry, homeostasis and performance

Abstract Accelerated lakes eutrophication is one of the greatest challenges nowadays. To counteract its negative effects, large-scale restoration treatments are carried out worldwide. However, research in this field mainly focused on process effectiveness and there a scarcity studies concerning impact water organisms ecosystem homeostatsis. Our microcosm study presents effects phosphorus coagulant (iron [III] chloride) functional traits changes, oxidative stress macro- microelement stoichiometry disturbances macrophyte Myriophyllum spicatum , model species inhabiting eutrophic waters. Application to experimental vessels influenced physicochemical optical parameters led significant changes biogeochemistry. Stoichiometric alterations were reflected by relative contents (C, N, P, Ca, Mg) microelements (Fe, Zn, Cu, Co) induced luxury consumption available ions. Physicochemical stoichiometric mutually exerted influence M. traits. The remained at low levels, comparable untreated control whereas analysis revealed activation mechanisms responsible for minimizing light stress. ability maintain homeostasis Cu Co under simulated chemical was closely related high concentrations Fe Zn ions, which simultaneously not subjected control. Thus, lake based coagulants as environmentally safe previously considered may have far-reaching consequences biogeochemical cycle food web functioning.