Impact of shoreline broadleaf cattail presence on macroinvertebrate communities

While lake recreation can have positive economic and social value, it often comes with negative impacts on the environment. Specifically, shoreline vegetation, which provides shelter and resources for macroinvertebrates, is heavily impacted by human disturbances. Understanding the effects of shoreline vegetation on macroinvertebrate communities can provide valuable insights into effective management of freshwater habitats that benefit both the ecosystem and humans. Macroinvertebrates differ in their habitat preferences according to factors like food and shelter availability. One notable shoreline habitat feature is the broadleaf cattail (Typha latifolia), a native Californian emergent macrophyte that may have both positive and negative outcomes for landowners and macroinvertebrates. We surveyed plots along the shoreline of Lake Fulmor, observing broadleaf cattail presence, percent cover, and macroinvertebrate presence. We found that water striders (Gerridae), damselflies (Zygoptera), and dragonflies (Anisoptera) were more frequently found in sites with broadleaf cattails, while mayflies (Ephemeroptera) were more frequently found in sites without broadleaf cattails. Honeybees (Apis) had no preference for broadleaf cattail presence or absence. We also found that broadleaf cattail percent cover did not have an impact on total macroinvertebrate abundance or the presence of different taxonomic groups. Our findings suggest that maintaining sections of shoreline habitat with and without broadleaf cattails can help support a diverse macroinvertebrate community, providing guidelines for effective shoreline management.