Changes in species composition of desmids in the "Błoto" peat bog (The Niepołomice forest) from 1954 to 2001

Abstract

After the lapse of 48 years, a renewed study on species composition of desmids was carried out at the Błoto peat bog in the Niepołomice Forest. During this period, the peat bog underwent far-reaching changes caused by man. Out of 41 species recorded by Wasylik (1955), the occurrence of only 11 was confirmed. However, 14 species absent at the time of the earlier study were found. In all, 25 species of desmids were found. The present state of the desmid flora was brought about by increase of pH, draining of the area, disappearance of peat mosses and probably by eutrophication of waters in the studied area.