U.S.-Brazil Cooperative Research: Nutrient Uptake by Aquatic Macrophytes to Reduce Environmental Degradation

9722459 Biesboer This U.S.-Brazil award will support a research collaboration between Dr. David D. Biesboer of the University of Minnesota and Dr. Francisco Estevez of Federal University of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil on the study of sustainable development and nitrogen cycling in of Lagoa Imboacica, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil. This research project will involve the study of basic aspects of nitrogen cycling and nutrient uptake by aquatic macrophytes in the tropical lagoons of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. The goal is to determine the effectiveness of five floating and emergent aquatic plant species to remove excess nutrients and improve the quality of residential wastewater flowing into the tropical lagoon, Lagoa Imboacica. After the successful completion of this study, the PIs will use the resultant information in the creation of a model aquatic plant wastewater treatment facility that will reduce the environmental degradation of this lagoon. The information gathered from this project will serve to increase our understanding of nitrogen cycling in tropical lagoons and provide experience in artificial wetland design. ***