Description
Aerophytic Algae and Cyanobacteria: Diversity, Ecology, and Biogeography expands our understanding of microalgae and cyanobacteria that colonize air-exposed substrates. These species, often overlooked in marine and freshwater studies, play crucial roles in various ecosystems. Introductory chapters cover their morphology, physiological adaptations, and biogeography, highlighting their ecological significance and interactions within ecosystems. Other sections addresses future research directions, applications in environmental assessments, conservation, water and air quality management, bioremediation, and pollution control. The book, authored by a global team of phycologists, also explores taxa such as edaphic and corticolous diatoms, aeroplanktonic protists, and phototrophic phytotelmata.- Offers a comprehensive view of the diversity, distribution, and dispersal of aerophytic algae- Discusses the importance of studying aerophytic algae, their habitats, and techniques used in their investigation- Highlights the need for conservation, discusses research gaps, and provides a summary of existing studies
Table of Contents
1. Introduction to aeophytic algae and cyanobacteria2. The ecology of aerial phototrophs: Morphological and physiological adaptations3. The biogeography of terrestrial algae: Global patterns and local variations4. Corticolous diatoms and other microscopic organisms5. The unexpected megadiverse world of biocrust cyanobacteria6. Algae growing on lychens7. Moss-inhabiting microalgae and cyanobacteria8. Soil diatoms: Biomarkers of edaphic conditions9. Subaereal biofilms on artificial structures10. Aeroplanktonic protists: A review11. Phototrophic phytotelmata and dendrotelmata12. Lampenflora: Biofilm diversity in world caves13. Conclusion: Future direction and challenges
