Structural Characteristics and Adaptations of Desmid Communities

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Abstract
Nearly 400 samples containing desmids, previously referred to 3 groups by the application of a classification program, were ordinated on the basis of their desmid species composition. In alkaline, open water habitats, as eutrophication increased, there was a decrease in desmid diversity and an increase in the proportion of planktonic forms. Submerged fen-hollows were dominated, in relatively eutrophic sites, by small desmids with short generation times, whereas in relatively oligotrophic sites, larger desmids with longer generation times prevailed. The greatest desmid diversity occurred in the middle part of the trophic range; this is explained by a greater niche differentiation resulting from frequent fluctuations in nutrient concentrations in the habitat. In emergent fen habitats, the desmid diversity decreased with decreasing moisture content and rising acidity. The relative contribution of omniradiate forms with a small surface:volume ratio increased. The ecological significance of these characteristics and the relationship between genera:species ratio and habitat are discussed.

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