Les cyanobactéries marines endolithes

Abstract

The marine endolithic cyanobacteria inhabit a special “ecological niche”. As they live in tunnels bored in carbonate substrates as a result of endolithic activity. The taxonomic study including biomandrical, biological (cycle), ecological and ultrastructural characters enable species discrimination. Their vertical distribution are controlled by light penandration and water supply. Some species can adapt to extremely low light. The bioerosion which results of microboring and grazing activities has a destructive effect on coastal limestone and produces carbonate sediments. Furthermore microborings may be suitable as paleoecological indicators. © 1989 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.