Abstract
This paper describes the first study of algae assemblages in 20 caves in the Krakowsko-Częstochowska Upland (Southern Poland), in the period between 2005-2006. The investigations showed mostly on epilithic algae and their subaeric habitats (rock faces within caves and walls at cave entrances). The morphological and cytological variability of algae were studied in fresh samples, in cultures grown on agar plates and in SPURR preparations. A total of 43 algae species was identified, mostly epilithic species and tolerant of low light intensities. The largest group was formed by representatives of the division <em>Chlorophyta</em> (24 species), and then the division <em>Chrysophyta</em> (<em>Heterokontophyta</em>) - 17 species, with 9 species belonging to the class <em>Bacillariophyceae</em>, 7 species - Xanthophyceae and 1 species representing the class <em>Eustigmatophyceae</em>. <em>Dinophyta</em> (2 species) constituted the last and the smallest group. Among the collected algae, the following species deserve special attention: <em>Thelesphaera alpina</em>, <em>Bracteacoccus minor</em>, <em>Trachychloron simplex</em>, <em>Tetracystis intermedia</em> and <em>T. cf. isobilateralis</em>. The last species was not earlier found in Europe. Identification of species was greatly aided by examination of cell ultrastructure, which provided an array of further features, increasing chances of correct species identification. Furthermore, the studies focused that algae, although usually remaining under dominance of cyanobacteria, excellently differentiate this special area and even enrich it.
Highlights
Of autotrophic organisms capable of photosynthesis, living in caves, algae are worth examining, besides vascular plants and cyanobacteria
Collection of algological materials from 20 caves gives a unique chance to gain fuller insight into algae in this area. These studies were designed to examine only epilithic algae, i.e. those living on cave walls
All caves from Krakowsko-Czêstochowska Upland have been investigated by geologists (Szelerewicz et al 1986; Gradziñski et al 1995)
Summary
Of autotrophic organisms capable of photosynthesis, living in caves, algae are worth examining, besides vascular plants and cyanobacteria. They play an important ecological role in this environment as colonisers of rocks are influenced by surface structure, temperature, light and moisture conditions (Pentecost 1992). Collection of algological materials from 20 caves gives a unique chance to gain fuller insight into algae in this area These studies were designed to examine only epilithic algae, i.e. those living on cave walls. These rocks during millions of years underwent karst processes, which led to formation of numerous sculpted forms both underground and on the surface Of those the caves are the most interesting. The microclimate in some of the caves has been thoroughly examined by Starzecki (1959)
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