Salinity Dependent Distribution of Benthic Algae in Estuarine Areas of Icelandic Fjords

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Abstract
The gradient of the benthic algal vegetation in innermost estuaries of diverse Icelandic fjords was observed along the transition from fresh water to the polyhaline areas. The successive appearance of benthic algae from the river outlets and outwards along the fjords, and the leading associations and the zonation patterns were discussed. The innermost areas of Icelandic fjords represent natural salinity gradients ranging from limnic to marine conditions. Salinity, along with substrate configuration was regarded as the major factor responsible for the profound changes in these estuaries. The species Pylaiella littoralis, Dictyosiphon chordaria, Porphyra purpurea and representatives of the genera Enteromorpha and Cladophora are the pioneers.