Abstract
Most species of filamentous freshwater algae can occasionally be observed growing in floating clusters. The phenomenon seems to be characteristic for filamentous algae in shallow habitats. Dominant species may vary and show different periodicities. General characteristics can be observed in the development and dynamics of these floating clusters, called flab in the Dutch language. Occurring in shallow and often even ephemeral waterbodies, flab shows a pronounced stratification. The first development of algae is usually at the bottom. After a period of submerged growth, formation of oxygen bubbles leads to an ascent of the algal mass. During flotation, these algae are exposed to extreme conditions, especially of radiation, oxygen content, pH, and nutrient depletion. These conditions are greatly influenced by the weather and thus show rapid changes.
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© 1983 Dr W. Junk Publishers, The Hague
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Hillebrand, H. (1983). Development and dynamics of floating clusters of filamentous algae. In: Wetzel, R.G. (eds) Periphyton of Freshwater Ecosystems. Developments in Hydrobiology, vol 17. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-009-7293-3_7
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-009-7293-3_7
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