Identification and Ecology of Macroalgae Species Existing in Poland

Authors:

• Beata Messyasz,
• Marta Pikosz,
• Grzegorz Marek Schroeder,
• Bogusława Łęska,
• Joanna Fabrowska

Abstract

On the basis of the findings from our long-term studies and all available literature from Poland, the biological and ecological characteristics of the widely distributed macroalgae taxa are presented in this chapter. Macroscopic algae from different phyla representing the two main morphological types - filamentous forms (branched or unbranched) and tubular thallus forms - are discussed. These algae float on the water surface (green tides) or creep on the bottom mats. Species of the macroscopic algae belonging to the genera Ulothrix (U. variabilis Kützing), Ulva (U. flexuosa subsp. pilifera (Kütz.) Bliding, U. intestinalis L.), Cladophora (C. glomerata (Linnaeus) Kützing, C. rivularis (L.) Van Hoek), Rhizoclonium Kützing, Aegagropila (A. linnaei Kützing), Microspora Thuret, Oedogonium (O. capillare Kützing ex Hirn), Vaucheria De Candolle, and Tribonema (T. aequale Pascher) are described on the basis of their visible morphological and ecological features. For each species, the same pattern of presentation is chosen, including macro- and microscopic appearance, habitat preferences, place of occurrence, and characteristics of the communities in which they were recorded. Environmental conditions that determine the existence of these algae in freshwaters are primarily light (essential for autotrophic organisms), temperature, water movement and pH, as well as relevant concentrations of nutrients.