Humidophila brekkaensoides (Bock) Lowe, Kociolek, J.R.Johansen, Van de Vijver, Lange-Bertalot & Kopalová: aerophytic diatom from the caves of Serbia

Abstract

Diatom Humidophila braekkensoides is rare, aerophytic species found in seven caves of Serbia. First time was found at Alp’s rock in thin layer and described as a species that prefer non calcareous substratum. Our results show that H.brekkaensoides is found at limestone in caves, sporadically at the entrance, and in higher abundance inside, near artificial light. Cell dimensions differ from first record and it is shown that species can tolerate wider range of ecological parameters.