2007. 25cm. Pp.352. Photo-micrographs and figures. Hardbound with CD-ROM. Investigators of freshwater ecosystems inevitably are faced with microphytes. It is generally accepted that algal species (among which phytoplankters) are important indicators of water quality. In particular desmids (a group of green algae) are excellent indicators of environmental conditions such as pH, conductivity and trophic state of a water body. In addition to that, because of their preferential occurrence in vulnerable habitats, desmids lend themselves well to figuring in conservation studies. It goes without saying that using desmid species to that end is only justified in case of a reliable identification. The present flora aims to represent all desmid taxa known from the Netherlands and adjacent lowland areas. Over 500 species and more than 150 additional varieties are dealt with. Because of the predominantly cosmopolitan nature of most species the flora may also be of use outside the above-mentioned geographical region. The enclosed CD-rom offers general information on desmid biology as well as a selection of species that are discussed in more detail. Ecological data, both on separate species and desmid communities, enable a characterization of the habitat sampled. A digital calculation method for the assessment of desmid-related conservation value is included.

9789050112659.  Desmids  Of  The  Lowlands,  Mesotaeniaceae  And  Desmidiaceae  Of  The  European  Lowlands