Spatial variability and diversity of phytobenthos and metaphyton

Spatial variability and ecology of phytobenthic algal assemblages in peat bogs Abstract The thesis concerns two main issues: spatial distribution of microalgal assemblages in the environment of temperate peat bogs, and determination of morphological plasticity of selected desmid species (Euastrum binale, Staurastrum hirsutum) under different pH-levels using geometric morphometrics. The principal aims can be summarized as follows: (1) to evaluate seasonal and spatial patterns of the distribution of algal assemblages in a temperate lowland peat bog; (2) to describe the small-scale spatial patterns of the distribution of algal assemblages in two different microhabitats of a raised bog; (3) to investigate the range of morphological plasticity of selected desmid species under different pH-levels; (4) to evaluate species diversity and disparity of desmids in peat bogs using methods of geometric morphometrics and their relation to environmental conditions. The spatial pattern of the distribution of algal assemblages was studied along a linear transect in the homogenous environment of a lowland peat bog within one year on different spatial scales (10cm, 1m, 10m). The seasonal dynamics were exhibited by an increase in diversity, and a decrease in dominance from May to October, with significant differences in species..