Jesser, Renee D. 1998. Effects of Productivity on Species Diversity and Trophic Structure of Detritus-Based Food Webs Within Sediments of Wind Cave, South Dakota. MA Thesis. University of Northern Colorado. 78 p.

Abstract

This study examined the effects of productivity on species diversity and trophic structure within the sediments of Wind Cave, South Dakota. At five points along a natural productivity gradient, sediments were collected for analysis. The results established a positive correlation between the rate of energy input and species diversity and tropic structure. The results also established a positive correlative between species diversity, trophic structure and the diversity of energy inputs. The remote region of the cave was an exception to both relationships. The bacterial diversity in the remote region of the cave, the Western Fringe, was comparable to that on the surface of the cave and along the tour routes. This may indicate that species populations differ between regions of the cave. The results are consistent with previous studies and predications, and provides empirical evidence in support of the Productivity Hypothesis and the Diversity of Inputs Hypothesis.