Epilithic Diatom Community Structure and Physical-Chemical Interactions in Bolukcali Stream (Elazig/Turkey)

Abstract

Epilithic diatoms of Bolukcali steam were studied from February-December 2009 using samples collected from two stations. Sampling was performed monthly. Temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, nitrate, orthophosphate and silica values were measured over the entire study period. Epilithic diatoms of Bolukcali stream consisted most commonly of Cyclotella, Cymbella, Naviculu and Surirella genera while other genera identified included Epithemia, Nitzschia, Rhoicosphenia, Gomponema and Cocconeis. The physical and chemical parameters of these diatom communities were studied along with their variations by stations and seasons.