Snow Algae: The Effects of Chemical and Physical Factors on Their Life Cycles and Populations

Abstract

Algae, fungi and bacteria are microorganisms commonly found in snow and ice habitats (Kol 1968, Horner 1985, Hoham and Duval 1999). These microbes may encounter conditions of extreme temperature, acidity, irradiation levels, minimal nutrients and desiccation when liquid water is no longer available (Hoham 1992). When liquid water is present, it allows for their growth and reproduction (Pollock 1970), and special adaptations and mechanisms for surviving in cold temperatures occur (Bidigare et al. 1993, Hoham and Duval 1999). Microorganisms play a fundamental role in the biogeochemistry of snow and ice (Jones 1991) and are involved in the primary production, respiration, nutrient cycling, decomposition, metal accumulation and food webs associated with these habitats (Fjerdingstad et al. 1978, Hoham 1980, Jones 1991, Hoham et al. 1993, Hoham and Duval 1999).