ANDREW FYSON - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by ANDREW FYSON

Mine Water and The Environment, Dec 1, 2006

... the analyses. Many thanks also to Dr. Sabine Wilczek, Corinna Völkner, Christoph Winter, Dr. ... more ... the analyses. Many thanks also to Dr. Sabine Wilczek, Corinna Völkner, Christoph Winter, Dr. Jörg Lewandowski, Dr. Michael Hupfer, Dr. Jan Köhler, and Dr. Andreas Kleeberg for their help with analysis and wording. This study ...

Ziel der vorliegenden Untersuchungen war, die Auswirkung von Stoffeintragen auf biogeochemische W... more Ziel der vorliegenden Untersuchungen war, die Auswirkung von Stoffeintragen auf biogeochemische Wechselwirkungen zwischen Grundwasser, Sediment und Freiwasser von extrem sauren Tagebauseen zu erfassen. Dabei wurde die Dynamik von pH-Wert, Phosphor und Kohlenstoff als wichtige Steuergrosen der biologischen Entwicklung besonders berucksichtigt. Artenzusammensetzung, Biomasse und Primarproduktion des Phytobenthos wurden als biologische Reaktionen auf die abiotischen Bedingungen an der Sediment-Wasser-Grenzflache untersucht.

In 1993, two 0.5 ha experimental plots were set up on inactive uranium tailings in Elliot Lake an... more In 1993, two 0.5 ha experimental plots were set up on inactive uranium tailings in Elliot Lake and on fresh pyrrhotite tailings at Copper Cliff, Ontario. Phosphate rock and horse manure were mixed into the tailings surfaces by a roto-tiller. Field plots were investigated using electromagnetic resistivity measurements 39 months (Copper Cliff) and 45 months (Elliot Lake) after set up. Resistivity measurements on the pyrrhotite tailings when modeled showed distinct differences between treatment plots, with phosphate treatments having the highest resistivity. At the same time, treatment plots were sampled both within and below the amended tailings surface stratum. The samples were stored for 5.5 years (Copper Cliff) and 6.5 years (Elliot Lake), respectively, at room temperature in the dark. Slurries (1:5 w:v) to assess the chemistry, simulating pore water in the tailings layer were made. The supernatant was monitored for 22 months by periodically measuring pH, redox potential, electrical conductivity, and acidity. At the end of the monitoring period, the elemental composition of the supernatant was determined by ICP. Principal component analyses (PCA) were applied to parameters that were measured in the simulated pore water. With the PCA performed on the water quality data, differences in treatment conditions were determined within the uranium tailings and the base metal tailings plots. It was possible to discriminate between treatment conditions in terms of pore water characteristics in the uranium and the base metal pore water. The PCA indicated that the pyrrhotite tailings treatment with high horse manure and high phosphate generated distinct water quality conditions, but only in the amended surface layer at a depth of 7.5 cm. High horse manure and high phosphate improved the pore water quality in both tailings types.

Environmental and Experimental Botany, Dec 1, 2001

In acidic waters, a variety of autotrophic organisms are found including phototrophic bacteria, p... more In acidic waters, a variety of autotrophic organisms are found including phototrophic bacteria, phytoplankton, filamentous- and micro-benthic algae and macrophytes. To explain the occurrence and distribution of primary producers we must answer the following question. What is acidity and where and how does it influence autotrophic metabolism in aquatic ecosystems? The very low pH per se will have profound effects on the survival and growth of organisms and therefore influence biodiversity. On the other hand, we observed a spatial structuring of phototrophic colonization according to the supply of nutrients at interfaces or specific layers. These are interfaces between sediment and water and the chemocline of meromictic lakes or in the case of planktonic development, chlorophyll maxima in the hypolimnion. Therefore, we attempt to analyze the growth conditions for different types of autotrophic organism in relation to resource demands and the distribution of limiting nutrients in sediments and the water column. Adaptations may be morphological (e.g. size, shape, surface area), physiological (e.g. heterotrophic or mixotrophic metabolism, CO2 concentrating mechanisms, low intrinsic growth rates), behavioral (e.g. diurnal migration) or ecological (low grazing pressure, low losses through sedimentation).

Journal of Experimental Botany, 1980

Journal of the American Society of Mining and Reclamation, Jun 30, 2005

The objective of this paper is to review the chemical processes which drive the performance of bo... more The objective of this paper is to review the chemical processes which drive the performance of both conventional and passive treatment systems for Acid Mine Drainage and to compare the two. Several decades of research have improved the performance of both yet neither provides an environmentally acceptable, sustainable solution to the problem, which is still a major financial liability of the mining industry. A review of the literature and an examination of the underlying chemical reactions of both approaches suggest that the greatest potential for improvements lies with passive ecological systems. Future research areas are suggested...

Hydrobiologia, 2003

Acidic mining lakes offer an opportunity to investigate ecological development under extreme geoc... more Acidic mining lakes offer an opportunity to investigate ecological development under extreme geochemical conditions. Low pH combined with high ionic and metal concentrations allows only a small number of species, in particular nanoflagellates, to occur. In these lakes, important nutrients such as phosphorus and inorganic carbon are scarce and limit primary production. In order to investigate the neutralization potential of sulphate reducing processes and controlled eutrophication, in Lake Koyne 113 (Brandenburg, Germany), a new technique for the remediation of acidic waters was tested by adding organic material to the lake in jute bags ("Biobags"), which should form anoxic microbial reaction compartments and increase primary production by adding nutrients to the water. This treatment was expected to have profound effects on the lake ecosystem. The hydrochemical and biological effects were observed within an accompanying monitoring programme. The experiment led to an increase in the organic carbon and total phosphorus concentrations. The influence on other physical and chemical variables was not obvious. Phytoplankton species composition remained unchanged and was still determined by the high acidity. Algal biomass rapidly increased after nutrient addition and chlorophytes replaced chrysophytes as the dominant phytoplankton group.

Springer eBooks, 1991

In southern Ontario, continuous maize production is widely practiced but may lead to deterioratio... more In southern Ontario, continuous maize production is widely practiced but may lead to deterioration of soil structure and reduction in yields (Bolton, 1976; Ketcheson, 1980). Rotation with legumes such as alfalfa can reverse this trend.

Canadian Journal of Soil Science, Aug 1, 1987

A layer of soil (soil sheath) that is resistant to removal by shaking develops on corn seedling r... more A layer of soil (soil sheath) that is resistant to removal by shaking develops on corn seedling roots under a wide variety of environmental conditions. Low temperature (15 °C) and high soil moisture content (100% field capacity) promote the formation of the most substantial sheaths (> 11 mg of soil (dry weight) cm−1 root) in an Elora alfalfa soil. A diversity of corn genotypes and a teosinte form sheaths of comparable specific mass whereas much less soil adheres to pea and soybean roots in this soil. Cultivation history has a considerable influence on sheath mass. For example, at Elora, a soil under alfalfa for several seasons promotes sheaths of higher specific mass (9.9 ± 0.5 mg cm−1 root) than a continuous corn soil (7.1 ± 0.6 mg cm−1 root). Seeds inoculated with a fluorescent pseudomonad developed significantly more substantial sheaths in a 7-irradiated soil (11.2 ± 0.9 mg cm−1 root) than uninoculated, surface sterilized seeds (7.1 ± 0.6 mg cm−1 root). These observations suggest that a variety of factors influence the extent of sheath development. Key words: Soil sheath, temperature, soil moisture, soil type, fluorescent pseudomonads, corn

Annals of Botany, Nov 1, 1982

Plant and Soil, Mar 1, 1990

Maize (Zea mays cv W64A × W182E) was grown in a low nutrient sandy loam. Inoculation with legume ... more Maize (Zea mays cv W64A × W182E) was grown in a low nutrient sandy loam. Inoculation with legume soils (4.1% v/v) gave a 3 to 4 fold increase in shoot growth relative to the control after 5 to 8 weeks growth in greenhouse conditions. Plants were routinely irrigated with 1/10 Hoagland solution (with 10mM KNO3). With half strength Hoagland solution (10mM KNO3) there was no clear growth response. This growth response was observed with a variety of legume soils but not with any of the maize soils tested. The response to alfalfa soil was eliminated or much reduced by gamma irradiation (3.6 Mrad) or autoclaving of the inoculum. The bactericide streptomycin had no effect on the growth response whereas the fungicides benomyl and PCNB eliminated it. This suggests that fungi and not bacteria are involved in the growth promotion.

Verhandlungen, Mar 1, 2006

Plant and Soil, Dec 1, 1992

Roots of maize (Zea mays cv W64A x W182E) infected by vesicular arbuscular mycorrhizal (VAM) fung... more Roots of maize (Zea mays cv W64A x W182E) infected by vesicular arbuscular mycorrhizal (VAM) fungi (Glomus versiforme (Karst) Berch or a Glomus species isolated from an alfalfa soil) exhibit a bright yellow pigmentation. The percentage of pigmented roots can be quantified by a rapid visual estimate or by a grid intersect method. Both methods gave similar estimates of VAM infection to those obtained using a grid intersect count on cleared roots stained with chlorazol black E. Thus for experimental or field evaluation where speed and quantity are important, the rapid visual estimate (less than one minute for each washed root system) yields reliable results. The yellow root intersect method takes longer (5-15 minutes per root system) but gives more reproducible results. The yellow root pigmentation is light sensitive. However, root systems can be reliably assayed after 1 week when stored at 5°C in the dark or after 1 year if dried.

Journal of the American Society of Mining and Reclamation, Jun 30, 2005

Pit lakes in the Lausitz lignite mining district of Germany are diverse in size and morphometry. ... more Pit lakes in the Lausitz lignite mining district of Germany are diverse in size and morphometry. Many are extremely acidic with pH ≤ 3 and high in iron concentrations. Productivity in most of the mining lakes is generally low and they support only simple food webs; a few of the acidic lakes, with high nutrient concentrations, are highly productive. State planners hope to develop the lake region for recreation. To that end, various methods are being investigated to remove acidity from the lake waters. The microcosm experiment described here employs controlled eutrophication to enhance element cycling and sedimentbound alkalinity generating processes. Sixty litre microcosms with water and sediment from Lake Grünewalde (pH 3.0, Fe 14 mg L-1 , acidity (KB 8.3) 2 mmol L-1 and phosphorus 4 µg L-1) were set up under laboratory conditions. Addition of nutrients (organic carbon and phosphorus) led to dramatic increases in primary production associated with blooms of green algae (Chlamydomonas sp.) and diatoms (Eunotia exigua) but no substantial removal of acidity. Generation of temporary anaerobic conditions through addition of potatoes led to removal of 85 % of acidity, all detectable dissolved iron, and an increase in pH from 3 to 7. These conditions were maintained with this treatment for the remainder of the 8 month observation period following removal of iron and protons from the water column.

Advances in Nitrogen Fixation Research, 1984

Tolerance of Rhizobium isolates to heavy metals was screened by multi-point inoculation of define... more Tolerance of Rhizobium isolates to heavy metals was screened by multi-point inoculation of defined medium agar plates each with a metal ion at a particular concentration.

The Rhizosphere and Plant Growth, 1991

In southern Ontario, continuous maize production is widely practiced but may lead to deterioratio... more In southern Ontario, continuous maize production is widely practiced but may lead to deterioration of soil structure and reduction in yields (Bolton, 1976; Ketcheson, 1980). Rotation with legumes such as alfalfa can reverse this trend.

Canadian Journal of Botany, 1988

The surface of primary roots of maize (Zea mays cv. W64A × 182E) seedlings grown in a field soil ... more The surface of primary roots of maize (Zea mays cv. W64A × 182E) seedlings grown in a field soil was examined after cryogenic preparation of samples for scanning electron microscopy. The very short preparation time of this method and the absence of fixation and drying procedures give excellent preservation of the spatial organization of the rhizosphere. As root hairs develop, they carry soil clear of the epidermal surface to form a distinct soil sheath layer. Root hairs remain turgid along the entire length of the primary root of the seedlings studied and are often distorted as a result of their growth around obstructing soil aggregates. The epidermal surface remains remarkably clean along the entire length of the root. Fractures of frozen roots reveal that the epidermis is covered by a thin layer that may be mucilage. Very few microorganisms are observed on the epidermal surface.

Mine Water and The Environment, Dec 1, 2006

... the analyses. Many thanks also to Dr. Sabine Wilczek, Corinna Völkner, Christoph Winter, Dr. ... more ... the analyses. Many thanks also to Dr. Sabine Wilczek, Corinna Völkner, Christoph Winter, Dr. Jörg Lewandowski, Dr. Michael Hupfer, Dr. Jan Köhler, and Dr. Andreas Kleeberg for their help with analysis and wording. This study ...

Ziel der vorliegenden Untersuchungen war, die Auswirkung von Stoffeintragen auf biogeochemische W... more Ziel der vorliegenden Untersuchungen war, die Auswirkung von Stoffeintragen auf biogeochemische Wechselwirkungen zwischen Grundwasser, Sediment und Freiwasser von extrem sauren Tagebauseen zu erfassen. Dabei wurde die Dynamik von pH-Wert, Phosphor und Kohlenstoff als wichtige Steuergrosen der biologischen Entwicklung besonders berucksichtigt. Artenzusammensetzung, Biomasse und Primarproduktion des Phytobenthos wurden als biologische Reaktionen auf die abiotischen Bedingungen an der Sediment-Wasser-Grenzflache untersucht.

In 1993, two 0.5 ha experimental plots were set up on inactive uranium tailings in Elliot Lake an... more In 1993, two 0.5 ha experimental plots were set up on inactive uranium tailings in Elliot Lake and on fresh pyrrhotite tailings at Copper Cliff, Ontario. Phosphate rock and horse manure were mixed into the tailings surfaces by a roto-tiller. Field plots were investigated using electromagnetic resistivity measurements 39 months (Copper Cliff) and 45 months (Elliot Lake) after set up. Resistivity measurements on the pyrrhotite tailings when modeled showed distinct differences between treatment plots, with phosphate treatments having the highest resistivity. At the same time, treatment plots were sampled both within and below the amended tailings surface stratum. The samples were stored for 5.5 years (Copper Cliff) and 6.5 years (Elliot Lake), respectively, at room temperature in the dark. Slurries (1:5 w:v) to assess the chemistry, simulating pore water in the tailings layer were made. The supernatant was monitored for 22 months by periodically measuring pH, redox potential, electrical conductivity, and acidity. At the end of the monitoring period, the elemental composition of the supernatant was determined by ICP. Principal component analyses (PCA) were applied to parameters that were measured in the simulated pore water. With the PCA performed on the water quality data, differences in treatment conditions were determined within the uranium tailings and the base metal tailings plots. It was possible to discriminate between treatment conditions in terms of pore water characteristics in the uranium and the base metal pore water. The PCA indicated that the pyrrhotite tailings treatment with high horse manure and high phosphate generated distinct water quality conditions, but only in the amended surface layer at a depth of 7.5 cm. High horse manure and high phosphate improved the pore water quality in both tailings types.

Environmental and Experimental Botany, Dec 1, 2001

In acidic waters, a variety of autotrophic organisms are found including phototrophic bacteria, p... more In acidic waters, a variety of autotrophic organisms are found including phototrophic bacteria, phytoplankton, filamentous- and micro-benthic algae and macrophytes. To explain the occurrence and distribution of primary producers we must answer the following question. What is acidity and where and how does it influence autotrophic metabolism in aquatic ecosystems? The very low pH per se will have profound effects on the survival and growth of organisms and therefore influence biodiversity. On the other hand, we observed a spatial structuring of phototrophic colonization according to the supply of nutrients at interfaces or specific layers. These are interfaces between sediment and water and the chemocline of meromictic lakes or in the case of planktonic development, chlorophyll maxima in the hypolimnion. Therefore, we attempt to analyze the growth conditions for different types of autotrophic organism in relation to resource demands and the distribution of limiting nutrients in sediments and the water column. Adaptations may be morphological (e.g. size, shape, surface area), physiological (e.g. heterotrophic or mixotrophic metabolism, CO2 concentrating mechanisms, low intrinsic growth rates), behavioral (e.g. diurnal migration) or ecological (low grazing pressure, low losses through sedimentation).

Journal of Experimental Botany, 1980

Journal of the American Society of Mining and Reclamation, Jun 30, 2005

The objective of this paper is to review the chemical processes which drive the performance of bo... more The objective of this paper is to review the chemical processes which drive the performance of both conventional and passive treatment systems for Acid Mine Drainage and to compare the two. Several decades of research have improved the performance of both yet neither provides an environmentally acceptable, sustainable solution to the problem, which is still a major financial liability of the mining industry. A review of the literature and an examination of the underlying chemical reactions of both approaches suggest that the greatest potential for improvements lies with passive ecological systems. Future research areas are suggested...

Hydrobiologia, 2003

Acidic mining lakes offer an opportunity to investigate ecological development under extreme geoc... more Acidic mining lakes offer an opportunity to investigate ecological development under extreme geochemical conditions. Low pH combined with high ionic and metal concentrations allows only a small number of species, in particular nanoflagellates, to occur. In these lakes, important nutrients such as phosphorus and inorganic carbon are scarce and limit primary production. In order to investigate the neutralization potential of sulphate reducing processes and controlled eutrophication, in Lake Koyne 113 (Brandenburg, Germany), a new technique for the remediation of acidic waters was tested by adding organic material to the lake in jute bags ("Biobags"), which should form anoxic microbial reaction compartments and increase primary production by adding nutrients to the water. This treatment was expected to have profound effects on the lake ecosystem. The hydrochemical and biological effects were observed within an accompanying monitoring programme. The experiment led to an increase in the organic carbon and total phosphorus concentrations. The influence on other physical and chemical variables was not obvious. Phytoplankton species composition remained unchanged and was still determined by the high acidity. Algal biomass rapidly increased after nutrient addition and chlorophytes replaced chrysophytes as the dominant phytoplankton group.

Springer eBooks, 1991

In southern Ontario, continuous maize production is widely practiced but may lead to deterioratio... more In southern Ontario, continuous maize production is widely practiced but may lead to deterioration of soil structure and reduction in yields (Bolton, 1976; Ketcheson, 1980). Rotation with legumes such as alfalfa can reverse this trend.

Canadian Journal of Soil Science, Aug 1, 1987

A layer of soil (soil sheath) that is resistant to removal by shaking develops on corn seedling r... more A layer of soil (soil sheath) that is resistant to removal by shaking develops on corn seedling roots under a wide variety of environmental conditions. Low temperature (15 °C) and high soil moisture content (100% field capacity) promote the formation of the most substantial sheaths (> 11 mg of soil (dry weight) cm−1 root) in an Elora alfalfa soil. A diversity of corn genotypes and a teosinte form sheaths of comparable specific mass whereas much less soil adheres to pea and soybean roots in this soil. Cultivation history has a considerable influence on sheath mass. For example, at Elora, a soil under alfalfa for several seasons promotes sheaths of higher specific mass (9.9 ± 0.5 mg cm−1 root) than a continuous corn soil (7.1 ± 0.6 mg cm−1 root). Seeds inoculated with a fluorescent pseudomonad developed significantly more substantial sheaths in a 7-irradiated soil (11.2 ± 0.9 mg cm−1 root) than uninoculated, surface sterilized seeds (7.1 ± 0.6 mg cm−1 root). These observations suggest that a variety of factors influence the extent of sheath development. Key words: Soil sheath, temperature, soil moisture, soil type, fluorescent pseudomonads, corn

Annals of Botany, Nov 1, 1982

Plant and Soil, Mar 1, 1990

Maize (Zea mays cv W64A × W182E) was grown in a low nutrient sandy loam. Inoculation with legume ... more Maize (Zea mays cv W64A × W182E) was grown in a low nutrient sandy loam. Inoculation with legume soils (4.1% v/v) gave a 3 to 4 fold increase in shoot growth relative to the control after 5 to 8 weeks growth in greenhouse conditions. Plants were routinely irrigated with 1/10 Hoagland solution (with 10mM KNO3). With half strength Hoagland solution (10mM KNO3) there was no clear growth response. This growth response was observed with a variety of legume soils but not with any of the maize soils tested. The response to alfalfa soil was eliminated or much reduced by gamma irradiation (3.6 Mrad) or autoclaving of the inoculum. The bactericide streptomycin had no effect on the growth response whereas the fungicides benomyl and PCNB eliminated it. This suggests that fungi and not bacteria are involved in the growth promotion.

Verhandlungen, Mar 1, 2006

Plant and Soil, Dec 1, 1992

Roots of maize (Zea mays cv W64A x W182E) infected by vesicular arbuscular mycorrhizal (VAM) fung... more Roots of maize (Zea mays cv W64A x W182E) infected by vesicular arbuscular mycorrhizal (VAM) fungi (Glomus versiforme (Karst) Berch or a Glomus species isolated from an alfalfa soil) exhibit a bright yellow pigmentation. The percentage of pigmented roots can be quantified by a rapid visual estimate or by a grid intersect method. Both methods gave similar estimates of VAM infection to those obtained using a grid intersect count on cleared roots stained with chlorazol black E. Thus for experimental or field evaluation where speed and quantity are important, the rapid visual estimate (less than one minute for each washed root system) yields reliable results. The yellow root intersect method takes longer (5-15 minutes per root system) but gives more reproducible results. The yellow root pigmentation is light sensitive. However, root systems can be reliably assayed after 1 week when stored at 5°C in the dark or after 1 year if dried.

Journal of the American Society of Mining and Reclamation, Jun 30, 2005

Pit lakes in the Lausitz lignite mining district of Germany are diverse in size and morphometry. ... more Pit lakes in the Lausitz lignite mining district of Germany are diverse in size and morphometry. Many are extremely acidic with pH ≤ 3 and high in iron concentrations. Productivity in most of the mining lakes is generally low and they support only simple food webs; a few of the acidic lakes, with high nutrient concentrations, are highly productive. State planners hope to develop the lake region for recreation. To that end, various methods are being investigated to remove acidity from the lake waters. The microcosm experiment described here employs controlled eutrophication to enhance element cycling and sedimentbound alkalinity generating processes. Sixty litre microcosms with water and sediment from Lake Grünewalde (pH 3.0, Fe 14 mg L-1 , acidity (KB 8.3) 2 mmol L-1 and phosphorus 4 µg L-1) were set up under laboratory conditions. Addition of nutrients (organic carbon and phosphorus) led to dramatic increases in primary production associated with blooms of green algae (Chlamydomonas sp.) and diatoms (Eunotia exigua) but no substantial removal of acidity. Generation of temporary anaerobic conditions through addition of potatoes led to removal of 85 % of acidity, all detectable dissolved iron, and an increase in pH from 3 to 7. These conditions were maintained with this treatment for the remainder of the 8 month observation period following removal of iron and protons from the water column.

Advances in Nitrogen Fixation Research, 1984

Tolerance of Rhizobium isolates to heavy metals was screened by multi-point inoculation of define... more Tolerance of Rhizobium isolates to heavy metals was screened by multi-point inoculation of defined medium agar plates each with a metal ion at a particular concentration.

The Rhizosphere and Plant Growth, 1991

In southern Ontario, continuous maize production is widely practiced but may lead to deterioratio... more In southern Ontario, continuous maize production is widely practiced but may lead to deterioration of soil structure and reduction in yields (Bolton, 1976; Ketcheson, 1980). Rotation with legumes such as alfalfa can reverse this trend.

Canadian Journal of Botany, 1988

The surface of primary roots of maize (Zea mays cv. W64A × 182E) seedlings grown in a field soil ... more The surface of primary roots of maize (Zea mays cv. W64A × 182E) seedlings grown in a field soil was examined after cryogenic preparation of samples for scanning electron microscopy. The very short preparation time of this method and the absence of fixation and drying procedures give excellent preservation of the spatial organization of the rhizosphere. As root hairs develop, they carry soil clear of the epidermal surface to form a distinct soil sheath layer. Root hairs remain turgid along the entire length of the primary root of the seedlings studied and are often distorted as a result of their growth around obstructing soil aggregates. The epidermal surface remains remarkably clean along the entire length of the root. Fractures of frozen roots reveal that the epidermis is covered by a thin layer that may be mucilage. Very few microorganisms are observed on the epidermal surface.