Abstract:
Hydrilla verticillata are found in freshwater and peat waters. Light absorbed by
macrophytes can be reduced because of suspended particles and the presence of
shade from plants that are around the waters. The density of H. verticillata varies
depending on environmental conditions. This study aims to determine the role of H.
verticillata (L. f.) Royle water macrophytes as a contributor of oxygen in peat waters
at various levels of H. verticillata and light densities. The study was conducted ex
situ, by planting macrophytes in peat and fresh water in plastic containers under
open and shade conditions. The research was Randomized Complete Block Design.
H. Verticillata biomass, consisting of four levels, namely 0 g (without plants), 30 g
(30% Hydrilla macrophytic closure for each volume of 5.5 liters), 60g (60%) and 90g
(90%). The results showed that the content of dissolved oxygen in peat water was
lower than that of fresh water. The presence of shade in peat or fresh water
decreases the dissolved oxygen content. High increases in macrophytic biomass (60
and 90% closure) do not significantly increase DO. The presence of Hydrilla
verticillata in peat water in open conditions can contribute dissolved oxygen around
0.93 to 1.38 mg / l with an increase percentage of 28 to 42%. In the shade conditions,
the presence of H verticyllata macrophytes in peat water can contribute about 0.67 to
0.83 mg / l of dissolved oxygen with a percentage increase of 27 to 36% during the
day. DO diurnal DO fluctuations occur in the morning (8:00), afternoon (12.00) and
evening (16.00), with the highest DO content during the day.
