Phytosociological associations of algal periphyton

Abstract

In the search for a method to distinguish ecological units of periphytic algal communities, the phytosociological method was applied. On the basis of numerous samples collected from 49 lakes, it was found that there occur two associations in the lakes of Northern Poland: Oedogonio-Epithemietum litoralae in eutrophic lakes, and Hapalosiphono-Tabellarietum calciphobum in dystrophic and ‘Lobelia’ lakes. These associations may be regarded as synecological units, which repeat their basic characteristics in definite ecological conditions of the habitat. On the basis of multiple observations and measurements, it is possible to construct a model of cenosis which is a reference point for the purpose of comparison of discrete sets.

Analysis of species contents and numerous measurements of diversity, production and biomass of many phytocenoses justify making synhetic statements concerning the development of the structure and the role of periphyton the lake ecosystem. The association Oedogonio-Epithemietum litoralae produces about 5% of the total organic matter, while the association Hapalosiphono-Tabellarietum calciphobum 40%.

This work is part of Problem R-III-15 entitled ‘The development, the productivity and the functional correlations of typical ecosystems in selected areas of Tuchola Forests, of the Lake Districts Ilawa and Brodnica and of the farming district of Kujawy’.