Equilibrium/steady-state concept in phytoplankton ecology

This paper summarises the outcomes of the 13th Workshop of the International Association of Phytoplankton Taxonomy and Ecology (IAP). The authors mostly addressed their contributions on the following topics: the effect of trophic state on the attainment of a steady-state; the establishment of equilibria in deep and shallow lakes; the role of spatial heterogeneity, disturbance, and stress in the establishment of equilibrium assemblages; the mechanisms leading to the steady state; the frequency and longevity of equilibrium phases, and the role of morphological and physiological plasticity of phytoplankton in maintaining the (apparently) same populations under different environmental conditions. The composition of steady-state assemblages is compared to that of phytoplankton functional groups (coda). Those functional associations recognised as steady-state assemblages appear to be strongly K-determined in many instances

Phytoplankton responses to human impacts at different scales

This book: Deals with eutrophication impact on ecosystem functioning with a different focus and broader perspective. Takes into account the effects of multiple stressors on microalgal assemblages. Includes specific contributions on the autoecology and taxonomy of dinoflagellates and cyanobacteria. Features examples of applications of the morphology-, morpho-functional and functional groups (FG), (MFG) and (MBFG) Phytoplankton responses to human impact at different scales provides a state-of-the-art review of changes in the phytoplankton assemblages determined by human alterations of lakes and rivers. A wide spectrum of case studies describe the effects due to eutrophication and climate change, as well as other impacts connected with watershed management, hydrological alterations and introduction of non-indigenous species. The volume also includes two wide reviews on planktonic coccoid green algae and planktic heterocytous cyanobacteria. This book is addressed to ecologists and scientists involved in phytoplankton ecology and taxonomy. Many case studies provide a sound scientific basis of knowledge for a wise management of water bodies