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Ecosystems of the fjell fields in the Khibiny Mountains (Kola Peninsula) are investigated, including vegetation, soils, soil algae, and invertebrate fauna. We use EUNIS habitat typification (2013) to differentiate habitats. The most common habitat types include (1) crustose–lichen (Rhizocarpon geographicum) rock on eluvium of base-rich, alkaline, and siliceous rocks (U5111); (2) lichen-, sedge-, and dwarf- and shrub–dominated turfs and cushions on gravelly and rocky slopes (U5112); (3) sedge-, moss-, and lichen–dominated on rubble and stony mountain plateaus and peaks (U5113); (4) biological soil crust on fine-earth and gravelly polygon edges (U5114); and (5) late snow bed moss vegetation (U5115). Soils of the fjell fields are represented by Leptosols. The content of soil organic C is very high (26–32%), despite the thin soil profile, which has no illuvial–eluvial differentiation by the content of SiO2 and R2O3. The total flora includes 176 species of plants and lichens. Soil alga flora is composed of 43 species, where green algae of Chlorophyceae prevails. Soil microarthropods are dominated by Collembola, Oribatida, and Mesostigmata, which are also typical for mountain tundra. The soil microbial activity and the diversity and abundance of soil algae and invertebrates depends on the habitat type and soil moisture, as well as on soil organic matter content and increases on wet substrates or under more complex vegetation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The cyanobacterial-algal flora of the mountain systems in Siberia is still relatively poorly studied. Furthermore, there is a lack of research on the characteristics of its formation within mountain catena. The purpose of this study is to research the peculiarities of the formation of cyanobacterial-algal flora within mountain catena. Materials and methods. The research was conducted during the period of 2011–2013 in the vicinity of the village of Karam in the Kazachinsko-Lensky district of Irkutsk region, located within the North Baikal and Patom Highlands. In this area, a catena, approximately 600 meters long, has been identified. In the transeluvial part of the catena, there are outcrops of the parent rock as well as stony deposits. In the accumulative section, the micro-relief is almost not expressed, with well-defined two sinuosity – windward and lee. Sample collection was carried out according to the standard algological methodology. The flora analysis was conducted considering species and infraspecific taxa, using the Czekanowski-Sorensen coefficient and inclusion measures. Results. In total of 61 species (69 species and infraspecific taxa) of algae and cyanobacteria belonging to 6 divisions, 12 orders, 21 families, and 33 genera were found in the soils of the studied profile. A high percentage of the number of species within the top ten leading families indicates the boreal nature of the flora. The analysis of the flora indicated the allochthonous nature of the flora in the accumulated section of the catena and the autochthony of the flora in the transeluvial part. Conclusions.The catena, as a geochemical drainage basin, with varying ecological conditions in its individual sections, significantly influences the formation of cyanobacterial-algal flora.

Aero‐terrestrial algae are ecologically and economically valuable bioresources contributing to carbon sequestration, sustenance of soil health, and fertility. Compared to aquatic algae, the literature on subaerial algae is minimal, including studies of distinctive habitats such as forest soils, agricultural fields, deserts, polar regions, specific subaerial zones, artificial structures, and tropical soils. The primary goal here was to identify the gaps and scope of research on such algae. Accordingly, the literature was analyzed per sub‐themes, such as the "nature of current research data on terrestrial algae," "methodological approaches," "diversity," "environmental relationships," "ecological roles," and "economic significance." The review showed there is a high diversity of algae in soils, especially members belonging to the Cyanophyta (Cyanobacteria) and Chlorophyta. Algal distributions in terrestrial environments depend on the microhabitat conditions, and many species of soil algae are sensitive to specific soil conditions. The ecological significance of soil algae includes primary production, the release of biochemical stimulants and plant growth promoters into soils, nitrogen fixation, solubilization of minerals, and the enhancement and maintenance of soil fertility. Since aero‐terrestrial habitats are generally stressed environments, algae of such environments can be rich in rare metabolites and natural products. For example, epilithic soil algae use wet adhesive molecules to fix them firmly on the substratum. Exploring the ecological roles and economic utility of soil and other subaerial algae could be helpful for the development of algae‐based industries and for achieving sustainable soil management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new edaphic green alga, Oedocladium sahyadricum sp. nov was identified from a natural forest in Kerala, India. In the present study, the new species is described and compared with its related species. The primary distinguishing characteristics of O. sahyadricum include its dioecious and terrestrial nature, superior operculum, ellipsoid oogonium, and oospore. The study highlights the presence of Oedocladium in Kerala and emphasize the need for exploration of soil algae to further understand the diversity of this genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to examine the fatty acid profiles of 10 newly discovered microalgae strains hailing from phylogenetic groups valued in biotechnology. The fatty acid profiles were characterized utilising principal component analysis, resulting in several notable findings. First, our analysis revealed that certain characteristics of these profiles align well with those previously identified in similar study groups. Most notably, the marine strain Chlorella vulgaris MI-Ch19-a was found to have the highest concentration of saturated fatty acids, measuring 60.48%. Furthermore, this strain also boasted the highest α-linolenic content among those analyzed, representing 22.14% of the total fatty acid spectrum. Each strain under study demonstrated significant amounts of 16:0 (with a range spanning 18.43% to 38.28%), 16:1n-7 (ranging from 17.05% to 32.55%), and 20:5n-3 (ranging from 4.96% to 20.13%). When considering the phylogenetic influence, which was particularly marked in the levels of total saturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acid content, it was the prominence of the n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids that stood out amongst the phylogenetic groups. Lastly, the strains Thalassiosira eccentrica and Cyclotella atomus MI-B47 exhibited the highest volumes of eicosapentaenoic acid (20:5n-3).

Soil is a unique ecosystem with peculiar biodiversity that includes cyanobacteria and algae. Traditionally, cyanobacterial and algal cenoses were described mainly using the dominance approach, rarely based on the Braun-Blanquet method (floristic classification). More importantly, in both cases, the species of cyanobacteria and algae in communities were identified using classical methods (light microscopy) only. In this study, we present results of soil algal cenoses classification using the Braun-Blanquet approach based on species composition data obtained via an integrative approach. Characteristic tables include 19 out of 108 samples collected in the Jewish Autonomous Region, Primorsky Territory, and Sakhalin Region (Iturup Island) in 2018 and in 2020–2021. Twenty-five species of algae from four classes were identified in these sites. We described three new associations of algal communities—Coelastrelletum aeroterrestricae ass. nova, Vischerietum magnae ass. nova, Bracteacoccetum bullati ass. nova. PCA analysis corroborated the results of syntaxonomic analysis and revealed that Coelastrelletum aeroterrestricae inhabit soils with a high value of P; Vischerietum magnae inhabit soils with high value of soil organic carbon (SOC), N, and higher humidity; and Bracteacoccetum bullati inhabit soils with high K values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Eukaryotic algae in the top few centimeters of fellfield soils of ice-free Maritime Antarctica have many important effects on their habitat, such as being significant drivers of organic matter input into the soils and reducing the impact of wind erosion by soil aggregate formation. To better understand the diversity and distribution of Antarctic terrestrial algae, we performed a pilot study on the surface soils of Meseta, an ice-free plateau mountain crest of Fildes Peninsula, King George Island, being hardly influenced by the marine realm and anthropogenic disturbances. It is openly exposed to microbial colonization from outside Antarctica and connected to the much harsher and dryer ice-free zones of the continental Antarctic. A temperate reference site under mild land use, SchF, was included to further test for the Meseta algae distribution in a contrasting environment. Methods: We employed a paired-end metabarcoding analysis based on amplicons of the highly variable nuclear-encoded ITS2 rDNA region, complemented by a clone library approach. It targeted the four algal classes, Chlorophyceae, Trebouxiophyceae, Ulvophyceae, and Xanthophyceae, representing key groups of cold-adapted soil algae. Results: A surprisingly high diversity of 830 algal OTUs was revealed, assigned to 58 genera in the four targeted algal classes. Members of the green algal class Trebouxiophyceae predominated in the soil algae communities. The major part of the algal biodiversity, 86.1% of all algal OTUs, could not be identified at the species level due to insufficient representation in reference sequence databases. The classes Ulvophyceae and Xanthophyceae exhibited the most unknown species diversity. About 9% of the Meseta algae species diversity was shared with that of the temperate reference site in Germany. Discussion: In the small portion of algal OTUs for which their distribution could be assessed, the entire ITS2 sequence identity with references shows that the soil algae likely have a wide distribution beyond the Polar regions. They probably originated from soil algae propagule banks in far southern regions, transported by aeolian transport over long distances. The dynamics and severity of environmental conditions at the soil surface, determined by high wind currents, and the soil algae's high adaptability to harsh environmental conditions may account for the high similarity of soil algal communities between the northern and southern parts of the Meseta. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil algae are photosynthetic microorganisms showing huge differences in morphology depending on the soil type, agricultural practices, and environmental factors. The aim of this research was to compare the results of classical and molecular protocols for microalgal identification. The green microalgae were isolated from acidic arable soil of dystric cambisol type, using BG11 medium and the agar plate method. Firstly, the identification of the microalgae was performed based on its morphological characteristics using light microscopy (LM) and taxonomic monographs and reference books. The isolate was initially annotated on genus level as Coelastrella sp. Gene marker (ITS2) was used for molecular identification. According to this protocol, the microalga was identified as Scenedesmus vacuolatus. Combination of morphology and DNA-based approach proved to be the most effective for obtaining a consistent species level identification. Moreover, this is the first record of Scenedesmus vacuolatus identification from soil in Vojvodina, Serbia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Algae, other than aquatic habitats, do occur on soil surfaces in moisture-rich conditions. Cyanophycean members grow commonly on soil surfaces during rainy season. They produce brown black, deep green and olive green mucilage on top of soils. A study was done on such mucilage forming algae in which 14 taxa of non-heterocystous Cyanophyceae belonging to genera Microcystis and Chroococcus were very commonly observed from different habitats of north Maharashtra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionEukaryotic algae in the top few centimeters of fellfield soils of ice-free Maritime Antarctica have many important effects on their habitat, such as being significant drivers of organic matter input into the soils and reducing the impact of wind erosion by soil aggregate formation. To better understand the diversity and distribution of Antarctic terrestrial algae, we performed a pilot study on the surface soils of Meseta, an ice-free plateau mountain crest of Fildes Peninsula, King George Island, being hardly influenced by the marine realm and anthropogenic disturbances. It is openly exposed to microbial colonization from outside Antarctica and connected to the much harsher and dryer ice-free zones of the continental Antarctic. A temperate reference site under mild land use, SchF, was included to further test for the Meseta algae distribution in a contrasting environment.MethodsWe employed a paired-end metabarcoding analysis based on amplicons of the highly variable nuclear-encoded ITS2 rDNA region, complemented by a clone library approach. It targeted the four algal classes, Chlorophyceae, Trebouxiophyceae, Ulvophyceae, and Xanthophyceae, representing key groups of cold-adapted soil algae.ResultsA surprisingly high diversity of 830 algal OTUs was revealed, assigned to 58 genera in the four targeted algal classes. Members of the green algal class Trebouxiophyceae predominated in the soil algae communities. The major part of the algal biodiversity, 86.1% of all algal OTUs, could not be identified at the species level due to insufficient representation in reference sequence databases. The classes Ulvophyceae and Xanthophyceae exhibited the most unknown species diversity. About 9% of the Meseta algae species diversity was shared with that of the temperate reference site in Germany.DiscussionIn the small portion of algal OTUs for which their distribution could be assessed, the entire ITS2 sequence identity with references shows that the soil algae likely have a wide distribution beyond the Polar regions. They probably originated from soil algae propagule banks in far southern regions, transported by aeolian transport over long distances. The dynamics and severity of environmental conditions at the soil surface, determined by high wind currents, and the soil algae’s high adaptability to harsh environmental conditions may account for the high similarity of soil algal communities between the northern and southern parts of the Meseta.

Classification of non-diatomic algae in the agricultural soils of Shatt Al-Arab district were studied for an entire year starting from November 2020 until September2021.Diifferent environmental parameters (Temperature of soil and air, salinity, pH and some nutrients) were studied. The current study identified 72 taxonomic units belonging to two divisions, the blue-green algae and the green algae, the appearance of algal species was highest in the spring months and the lowest in July. The study identified five new species of blue-green algae represented by Gloeocapsopsis chroococcaides, Lyngbya regalis, Oscillatoria salina, Phormidium breve, Phormidium tinctorium. The results also showed the dominance of blue–green algae at the expense of green algae, and the genus Oscillatoria recorded dominace over the rest of the genera, and the results of the statistical analysis showed that temperature, salinity and conductivity were inversely associated with the number of algae species, while the nutrients represented by nitrogen, phosphorus, and available potassium were directly associated with the number of algal species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies have shown that the aquatic algae can cause allergy in humans. However, there are relatively few studies of airborne and soil algae on skin allergenicity. Therefore, we aimed to assess the skin allergenicity potential of airborne and soil algae isolated from Malaysia. Six algal species namely Scenedesmus sp., Stichococcus sp., Chlorococcum sp., Chlorella sp., Ulothrix sp. and Hapalosiphon sp. isolated from air and soil samples were screened based on the expression of IL-18 by NCTC 2544 keratinocytes in vitro assay. The mechanism of Stichococcus sp., Hapalosiphon sp. and Scenedesmus sp. in inducing skin allergenicity was further elucidated using Balb/c mouse model. Both proliferation of T-lymphocytes at local lymph nodes and expression of various acute inflammatory cytokines were assessed. The in vitro study showed that all algal extracts (1 mg/mL) except Ulothrix sp. were potential contact sensitisers and induced the expression of IL-18 by 0.369–5.227 pg/mg (IL-18/unit protein) in NCTC 2544 cells. The in vivo study revealed that Scenedesmus sp., Hapalosiphon sp. and Stichococcus sp. were able to induce skin sensitisation in mice with a stimulation index (SI) greater than 1.6 in the local lymph node assay (LLNA) suggesting these three algae species can cause allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). In addition, they are able to stimulate the expression of acute inflammatory cytokines such as GM-CSF, IL-1α and TNF-α. It was concluded that airborne and soil algae are potential contact allergens and can cause allergic contact dermatitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil is a unique ecosystem with peculiar biodiversity that includes cyanobacteria and algae. Traditionally, cyanobacterial and algal cenoses were described mainly using the dominance approach, rarely based on the Braun-Blanquet method (floristic classification). More importantly, in both cases, the species of cyanobacteria and algae in communities were identified using classical methods (light microscopy) only. In this study, we present results of soil algal cenoses classification using the Braun-Blanquet approach based on species composition data obtained via an integrative approach. Characteristic tables include 19 out of 108 samples collected in the Jewish Autonomous Region, Primorsky Territory, and Sakhalin Region (Iturup Island) in 2018 and in 2020–2021. Twenty-five species of algae from four classes were identified in these sites. We described three new associations of algal communities—Coelastrelletum aeroterrestricae ass. nova, Vischerietum magnae ass. nova, Bracteacoccetum bullati ass. nova. PCA analysis corroborated the results of syntaxonomic analysis and revealed that Coelastrelletum aeroterrestricae inhabit soils with a high value of P; Vischerietum magnae inhabit soils with high value of soil organic carbon (SOC), N, and higher humidity; and Bracteacoccetum bullati inhabit soils with high K values.

We describe Parietochloris toyamaensis sp. nov. and verify the taxonomic status of P. bilobata (originally described as Neochloris and once combined with Ettlia), using ultrastructural and molecular analyses. P. toyamaensis was isolated from soil collected in Toyama, Japan. It had a parietal chloroplast with pyrenoids that were discontinuously covered with starch segments and penetrated more or less in parallel by thylakoid membranes, and reproduced by forming naked, somewhat dorsoventral, biflagellate zoospores. Two contractile vacuoles were in line lengthwise, located in the median ventral side of the zoospores, as in the type P. alveolaris. The basal apparatus components included a single microtubule in the dexter root. P. toyamaensis was separately resolved from other members of the genus in the 18S rDNA and ITS2 trees. Since the authentic strain ASIB V141 of P. bilobata (stored as Ettlia) has been lost, ASIB V143 was used as a reference in place of it. P. bilobata ASIB V143 was resolved in the 'Parietochloris sensu stricto' clade but not 'Lobosphaera' clade in the 18S rDNA tree, so taxonomically the combination of N. bilobata with Parietochloris as P. bilobata by Andreyeva was confirmed. In zoospores of the strains of P. bilobata, contractile vacuoles were located in the ventral side, as in P. alveolaris. The taxonomic relationship between P. bilobata and P. grandis, and evaluation of the unique position of contractile vacuoles in dorsoventral zoospores as one of the key characters of Parietochloris were discussed. Characterization of the species of Parietochloris by using ultrastructural and molecular data. Proposal of Parietochloris toyamaensis sp. nov. Verification of phylogenetic position of Parietochloris bilobata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monthly variations of the algal abundance in different soils of the Balaton Upland National Park were measured by a direct cell counting method in a one year long investigation. Variance and regression analyses were used to evaluate the effects of environmental factors on the quantitative changes in algae. Results underlined the basic role of soil depth and cultivation, while soil type had a significant effect on cyanobacteria and diatoms. The seasonal effect in the abundance of eukaryotic algae was registered by summer maximum cell numbers. Taking all three investigated algal groups into consideration, the humus content of soil seemed to be the most important factor, being in negative correlation with their abundance, while the actual water content of soil had a slight positive effect on cell numbers. A negative correlation was found between the nitrogen content of soil and cyanobacterial abundance. The carbonate content of soils had a positive effect, while plasticity, zinc concentration and the actual pH of soil were in negative correlation with diatomal abundance. The actual pH of soils was the most important factor in the negative correlation with other eukaryotic algal abundance. Coefficients of determination showed that only 16.1%, 14.6% and 8% of the total variance in the abundance of cyanobacteria, diatoms and other eukaryotic algae, respectively, can be explained by measured soil and meteorological parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. This article discusses the results of a study of the species diversity of algae on urbanized soils in the city of Novosibirsk. The purpose of this work is to elucidate the response of algoflora to the degree of anthropogenic load as a possible bioindicator of the state of the environment. Materials and methods. Within the city of Novosibirsk, 9 sites were selected with varying degrees of anthropogenic load, where samples were collected according to the generally accepted algological method. Results. During the studies, 92 species and intraspecific taxa (c/o) belonging to 4 divisions, 7 classes, 11 orders, 22 families, and 39 genera were identified. Algae from the blue-green algae division - 42 species, green algae - 31 species, yellow-green algae - 6 species and diatom algae - 13 species were found in the soil of the studied sites. Changes in the ecological and cenotic significance from 0.13 to 0.77 and in the integral index of algogroup development from 29 to 211 for different plots allowed us to judge about the responses of algogroups to the degree of anthropogenic impact. Conclusions. The use of the ecological and cenotic significance of species and the integral indicator of development made it possible to determine the degree of formation of algal groups as a response to the anthropogenic load in Novosibirsk. Anthropogenic load significantly affects the degree of formation of algal groups, which can serve as a bioindicator of the state of the environment.

Epi- and endozoochory are well explored phenomena that contribute to the distribution patterns of plant seeds, spores or fruits by vertebrates. It is less known how soil algae may be redistributed due to analogous interactions. We describe the participation of saprophage Rossiulus kessleri (Julidae, Diplopoda) in soil algae redistribution. The research was carried out in a park area of a large industrial megacity in the Dnipro steppe region (Ukrainian North Steppe subzone), Dnipro city. Research material was collected according to zoological and algological methods. The leaf litter of tree species (ash maple Acer negundo, Italian poplar Populus deltoides, locust Robinia pseudoacacia, European white elm Ulmus laevis, Norway maple Acer platanoides) and living diplopods were collected within 1 m2 quadrats along transects. Millipedes were maintained without feeding for five days, after which they were fed with the litter collected previously. Identification of algoflora was conducted in washes from the surface of diplopods' bodies, its gut washes, in diplopods' excretions and leaf litter washes. In the leaf litter, as R. kessleri's feeding base, 14 soil algae species were identified—Nostoc punctiforme, Bracteacoccus minor, Mychonastes homosphaera, Neospongiococcum sp., Chlamydomonas sp., Chlorella vulgaris, Stichococcus bacillaris, Pseudococcomyxa simplex, Desmococcus olivaceus, Trebouxia spp., Klebsormidium flaccidum, Nephrodiella phaseolus, Navicula pelliculosa and Vischeria magna. In body surface washes, five soil algae species were identified, in gut washes seven algae species were found, while in excretions, just four were observed. It was established that not all algae species from the gut washes of R. kessleri were present in excretions. The presence of some representatives of soil algae, for example, Chlorella vulgaris and Vischeria magna, in natural park litter, body surface washes, gut washes and in excretions of R. kessleri, suggests that the given species pass through the diplopod's gut and stay undamaged. This indicates that soil saprophage R. kessleri contributes to the dispersal of some soil algae representatives through epi- and endozoochory. Our results represent novel contributions to the knowledge of zoochory. It was shown that animals can be involved in dispersal of not only plant parts but also entire organisms, although it is unknown at what scale diplopods contribute to the diversity and dispersal of algae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are a substantial number of studies on the biofertilization effects of cyanobacteria in rice paddy fields, mainly attributed to biological fixation of N2, but not much attention has been given to their fertilizing capacity in aerobic soils. Few studies have used solid media (i.e. a soil) when testing the plant-growth-promoting effects of microalgae on plants, and particularly on wheat. The purpose of this study was to test the biofertilizing effect of a filamentous cyanobacterium, previously isolated from an agricultural soil, in order to evaluate the potential substitution of chemical fertilizers and to test its phyto-stimulating capacity. Seedlings of Triticum aestivum were grown in pots with a peat-vermiculite mixture (1:1 weight basis) in an experiment designed as a complete randomized block, consisting of four treatments and with four replicates each: a pure culture of Anabaena cylindrica concentrated by centrifugation to 2 g dry matter L−1 (treatment B); spent cyanobacteria growth medium filtered at 0.22 µm (treatment F); harvested cyanobacterial mat re-suspended in distilled water (treatment WB); and distilled water as a control (treatment W). Aboveground wheat plant mass was improved by 40% in both treatments with cyanobacterial biomass (B and WB), as compared to the control (W) and filtrate (F), demonstrating that the co-cultivation with living cyanobacterial biomass was key to plant improvement. Chlorophyll contents were also increased by nearly 50% and nitrogen by over 10% in the treatment WB, clearly indicating that nutrients in the filtrate were irrelevant to the beneficial effects on plant growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is the first of its kind in Mongolia to make an ecological health assessment of birch forest, based on the composition of soil algae species. The Chlorophyta consisted of 54.5 percent of the total algae species. In Jargalant-Tain pass, Bogdkhan Mountain, the ground of the birch forest is drying up. Deterioration of forest soil ecology and the onset of aridity indicate the process of deforestation. Therefore, reforestation is urgently needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungi-algae interactions, such as lichen-forming fungi and parasitic chytrids on phytoplankton, are common in ecosystems. In contrast, interactions between filamentous fungi and soil algae that can be observed with the naked eye have been given little attention and remain unexplored. Here, we report a fungus that was associated with a visible symptom of dead algae on a soil surface in Sugadaira-kogen, Nagano, central Japan. Acremonium-like conidiophores were growing on vesicles and dead bodies of a yellow-green alga, Botrydium granulatum. The fungus was identified as Emericellopsis mirabilis based on its morphology by microscopic observation, phylogenetic analysis, and the similarity of the isolation substrate with the first description of the species. Co-culture experiments showed a filamentous cell differentiation of the alga by the fungus, but no harmful or beneficial effects on algal growth. Therefore, we speculate that E. mirabilis is a facultative parasite of B. granulatum under natural conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Restoration of ecosystems on the lands disturbed by the mining industry is very slow. Acceleration of these processes is the main purpose of revegetation measures. The purpose of the current research is to show changes of cyanobacteria and algae diversity and abundance depending on the composition of different reforested stands and technosols qualities of the waste rock dumps in West Donbas coal basin, Nikopol manganese ore basin and Kryvyi Rih iron ore basin (Ukraine) that were revegetated in 1966 and 1975. The main technosols physical and chemical qualities, diversity and abundance of cyanobacteria and algae are identified. It is discovered that abundance and diversity of cyanobacteria and algae depends on qualities of soils and forest-forming tree species. The increase in physical clay in soils (particles < 0.01 mm) has a positive effect on cyanobacteria diversity and development, the increase in humus effects positively species diversity of yellow-green and green algae. A higher pH intensifies development of cyanobacteria. Development of groups of cyanobacteria and algae shows dependence on the composition of forest-forming tree species and on their environment-forming impact. The environment-forming impact depends on properties of soils and decreases under the unfavourable conditions. Our study proved that the composition and quantity of cyanobacteria and algae have relation to forest-forming tree species and properties. The results can be used for the structural design of artificial edaphotopes, for a choice of forest-forming tree species that have a high capability to create forest ecosystems equivalent to natural ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotenoids have received particular attention both for their importance in algal systematics and hydrobiology and for their health benefits for humans, along with other applications in various industries. Here, we provide new data on the carotenoid content of five Vischeria/Eustigmatos strains isolated from aeroterrestrial habitats in Bulgaria and kept in the Algal Collection of Sofia University (ACUS). The obtained pigment pattern with nine carotenoids and generalization of literature data allowed us to update the knowledge on the chemotaxonomic characteristics of Eustigmatophyceae with a total of 47 pigments reported for the group, out of which 37 are carotenoids. The important photosynthetic pigment lutein, considered also a high-value product with extensive applications in feed, food, nutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries, was proved as a novel carotenoid for the group. The results also confirmed the presence of luteoxanthin, which is rarely reported in algae. All strains had a high content of the commercially valuable health-promoting xanthophyll astaxanthin. There were also different amounts of beta-carotene, violaxanthin, vaucheriaxanthin, canthaxanthin, zeaxanthin and antheraxanthin. Based on the differences in the pigment composition of the members of the ecological groups of aquatic and aeroterrestrial species, we propose the existence of two main pigment types in the class Eustigmatophyceae, with the aquatic type further divided into freshwater and marine pigment subtypes.

Background: Algal toxins are organic compounds formed by a range of marine, fresh waters, and wet soil algae. The purpose of this article is to investigate the histopathological effects of cyanobacterial toxins in testes organs. Materials and Methods: Algae were isolated and purified from Shatt Al-Arab in Basrah governorate, and then toxic compounds were extracted and applied on animals. Twenty-seven albino mice (strain Balb/c) were used and divided into 3 groups including a control group treated with normal saline NaCl concentrate 0.9% and two other groups treated with a single dose at two concentrations (30,60 mg/kg) of toxic extract. Each group was separated into three subgroups, and then sacrificed at 2, 7, and 15 days post-injection. Results: The results showed severe alteration in testicular tissue caused by the cyanobacterial toxin and most seminiferous tubules were necrotic and have lost cell nuclear staining after 48 hours post-injection. (60mg/kg) the group showed severe orchitis in seminiferous tubule and broken edges of seminiferous tubule completely degenerated with bleeding which remained for 15 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied how ecological factors affect species composition and structure of soil algal assemblages in different types of mountain tundra and sparse forests in the Northern Urals. Soil moisture, pH, nitrogen content and amount of solar radiation were determined using Ellenberg indicator values from phytoindicators. Species identification of soil algae was made using light microscopy following algal culture. We identified 74 algal species from five divisions. Most species were Cyanobacteria and Chlorophyta. For each habitat type we identified species with high frequency and fidelity. Algal species diversity was maximal in herbaceous plant communities, minimal in lichen communities, and showed a positive correlation with soil moisture and nitrogen content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotenoids have received particular attention both for their importance in algal systematics and hydrobiology and for their health benefits for humans, along with other applications in various industries. Here, we provide new data on the carotenoid content of five Vischeria/Eustigmatos strains isolated from aeroterrestrial habitats in Bulgaria and kept in the Algal Collection of Sofia University (ACUS). The obtained pigment pattern with nine carotenoids and generalization of literature data allowed us to update the knowledge on the chemotaxonomic characteristics of Eustigmatophyceae with a total of 47 pigments reported for the group, out of which 37 are carotenoids. The important photosynthetic pigment lutein, considered also a high-value product with extensive applications in feed, food, nutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries, was proved as a novel carotenoid for the group. The results also confirmed the presence of luteoxanthin, which is rarely reported in algae. All strains had a high content of the commercially valuable health-promoting xanthophyll astaxanthin. There were also different amounts of beta-carotene, violaxanthin, vaucheriaxanthin, canthaxanthin, zeaxanthin and antheraxanthin. Based on the differences in the pigment composition of the members of the ecological groups of aquatic and aeroterrestrial species, we propose the existence of two main pigment types in the class Eustigmatophyceae, with the aquatic type further divided into freshwater and marine pigment subtypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Previous research on soil remediation focused on soil properties and not on its effects on soil ecosystems. The present study investigated the adverse effects of soil physicochemical changes due to remediation on the biological indicators Chlorococcum infusionum and Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (algae) and Eisenia andrei (earthworm). Soil physicochemical properties, concentrations of total, bioavailable, and water-soluble heavy metals in soil were measured before and after remediation. Changes in soil pH, electrical conductivity, total nitrogen, and total phosphorous immediately after soil remediation were the primary causes of the biomass and photosynthetic activity inhibition observed in C. infusionum and C. reinhardtii , and the survival, normality, and burrowing behavior decrease observed in E. andrei in remediated soils showing dramatic changes in those properties. These findings suggest that remediated soils need some time to recover before restoring their functions, although heavy metals are no longer contaminating the soil. Highlights • Soil remediation can change soil pH, electrical conductivity, TN, and TP. • As soon as remediation, soil are not proper soil algae and earthworm. • Soils may need time to "recover" from remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Although biological soil crusts (BSCs) are known for a variety of ecological functions, the role of individual biocrust organism species in BSCs on their P cycling is almost unknown. To evaluate the hypothesis that the contribution of defined cultivable taxa of fungi and algea might influence the microbial P storage and mobilization in the underlying soil, a transect was investigated in a glacier foreland in the mountain plateau Hardangervidda in Southern Norway. Microbial biomass P storage in soil under BSC increased continuously with increasing distance to the glacier and increasing fungal species richness. Lowest soil phosphatase activity and soil organic matter content were linked with highest number of algal and fungal in the overlaying BSCs. Enhanced soil microbial biomass P was linked with an increasing water content and decreasing pH CaCl2 of the soil. Nine to 21 algal and 5 to 10 fungal taxa were identified per test site from BSCs along the transect. Members of the Eustigmatophyceae and Xanthophyceae were observed exclusively close to the glacier, those of Klebsormidiophyceae exclusively in larger distance. The most common fungal genera in the BSCs were Lecythophora , Penicillium, Rhizoscyphus and Pholiota, whereas Cosmospora sp., Thelebolus globosus and Mucor hiemalis were found exclusively close to the glacier. The presence of usually biomass-rich taxa in the soil crusts was related to an increased microbial P storage in total. An increasing impact of microbial P storage under BSCs on the subsequent successional vegetation development is suggested. Highlights • Microbial biomass P storage increased continuously with increasing distance to the glacier. • Microbial biomass P storage increased continuously with increasing fungal abundance. • Top-down control of fungi on P mobilization reflected by abundance of dark septate endophytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing demand for natural and safe products in cosmetics, algae with their diverse and valuable bioactive compounds are gaining vital importance. Until now, cosmetics have focused mainly on the use of freshwater and marine algae. However, algae are not restricted to aquatic habitats. They are found in essentially every type of aeroterrestrial and extreme environment on the Earth. There, they have to cope with harsh ecological conditions and have developed special strategies to thrive in these inimical habitats. Although not thoroughly studied, their adaptations include protective biochemical compounds which can find their application or are already used in the field of cosmetics. With proper cultivation techniques, algae from these habitats can provide novel sources of high-value functional products for the cosmetics industry, which have the advantage of being obtained in eco-friendly and cost-effective processes. However, it has to be considered that a few aeroterrestrial and extremophilic algae can be toxin producers, and in order to ensure conformity to the safe quality standards, all new ingredients must be properly tested. The aim of the present review is to unveil the hidden and underestimated potential of the enigmatic algae of aeroterrestrial and extreme habitats for the rapidly developing modern cosmetic industries.

In the mid-20th century, the unicellular and genetically tractable green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii was first developed as a model organism to elucidate fundamental cellular processes such as photosynthesis, light perception and the structure, function and biogenesis of cilia. Various studies of C. reinhardtii have profoundly advanced plant and cell biology, and have also impacted algal biotechnology and our understanding of human disease. However, the 'real' life of C. reinhardtii in the natural environment has largely been neglected. To extend our understanding of the biology of C. reinhardtii, it will be rewarding to explore its behavior in its natural habitats, learning more about its abundance and life cycle, its genetic and physiological diversity, and its biotic and abiotic interactions.

The aim of this work was to investigate the species diversity of diatoms growing on fallow fields on loose sand. The study site was located in the western part of Pogórska Wola near Tarnów (southern Poland). Samples were collected from fallow land once a month from April to December 2011. 57 diatom taxa from 19 different genera were found. The most numerous genera were Fragilaria (8) and Luticola (7). The highest species richness was observed in December, November and July, while the highest values of species diversity (Shannon–Wiener index) were recorded between August and October. Four taxa – Pinnularia borealis Ehrenb. var. borealis, Stauroneis borrichii (Petersen) Lund, Hantzschia amphioxys (Ehrenb.) Grunow, and Luticola nivalis (Ehrenb.) D.G. Mann, were found to be the dominant species. Neutral species (a pH of about 7) dominated in all months (from April to December), reaching an over 90% share in the assemblage. In terms of nitrogen content, nitrogen-autotrophic taxa, tolerating an elevated concentration of organically bound nitrogen, occurred most abundantly, as was indicated by the low content of nitrogen in the soil.

Abstract Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate or DEHP is classified as an endocrine-disrupting chemical. It is used as a plasticizer and pesticide additive. Moreover, it has a half-life of about 150–300 days. Thus, it is present in the soil environment and soil risk assessments for DEHP are needed. However, a number of studies have focused on the effects of DEHP in a single soil species. In this study, we conducted acute and chronic toxicity testing for DEHP using varied soil species, including plants, earthworms, soil algae, Collembola, and soil nematodes. In the plant toxicity test, no effect was observed at very high concentration except at some endpoints, and no effect was observed in the earthworm toxicity test. However, there were adverse effects on soil algae, Collembola, and nematodes. Notably, in the Collembola assays, the survival of adults decreased significantly at very high concentrations, whereas reproduction was hindered at low concentrations. Similar inhibition of reproduction was noted in the soil nematode assay. This suggests that DEHP has a greater influence on fertility than survival in the adult test species. However, besides hindered reproduction, no effect was observed on soil species at environmentally relevant concentrations. Graphical abstract Image Highlights • We observed acute and chronic toxicity of DEHP on eight soil species. • In acute assay, low toxicity was noted even at the high concentrations. • Chronic effects were observed albeit at unrealistic environmental concentrations. • Especially, reproductive effects were noted for collembola and soil nematodes. • Reproductive effects persisted even at DEHP concentrations of 10 mg/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil algae is a group of photoautotrophic organisms able to live on the soil surface and in the soil profile. Algae participate in the accumulation of organic compounds and the main biogenic exchange cycles in terrestrial ecosystems. Their importance increases in northern and mountain ecosystems with extreme environments. The aim of our research was to summarize the results of studies into soil algae in tundra, mountaintundra and boreal ecosystems in the Russian Northeast Europe based on literature and original data. We created a list of soil algae including 695 species from five divisions, 12 classes, 40 orders, 107 families and 245 genera. In tundra ecosystems, 348 species were found, 272 in mountain-tundra and 104 in boreal ecosystems. Taxonomical and eco-geographical analysis of the algal flora was also performed. We revealed the species with high frequencies of occurrence and the prevalent algal complexes in the different nature zones. Cosmopolite species widespread in typical soil or edaphophilic species indifferent to soil acidity were prevalent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The investigations of soil microbiota and soil interactions are more and more significant from several points of view, including climate studies, environmental or human health. As a rapid cultivation-independent technique to study the alterations in soil photoautotroph microbial community structures flow cytometry was tested in soil-water suspensions prepared from the fresh soil of different crop cultures. Flow cytometric data were analyzed with barcoding and fingerprinting approaches to study the soil algal (<30 µm) community structure based on chlorophyll-a and phycoerythrin autofluorescence. Both statistical approaches revealed larger differences between crop cultures than within, indicating that both methods have potential in studying the dynamic changes of soil microalgal community structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article analyzes the distribution of soil algae in winter soils in tropical regions of northern Fergana. The first 77 species of soil algae were detected and their taxonomic analysis was performed. Algoflorada contains 4 species of algae (Syanophyta, Xanthophyta, Bacillariophyta, Chlorophyta). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terrestrial diatom communities are dynamic, partially unknown and potential bioindicators of the soil ecological quality. Many different sampling methods for soil algae can be found in the literature. However, so far none of them have been tested for their performance with soil diatom communities and given recommendations for obtaining a representative diatom sample for bioindication purposes. The aim of this study was to develop a standardized sampling protocol for terrestrial diatoms and test the spatial variability of the communities to ensure the representativeness of the samples obtained. Sampling was performed in four different sampling sites in the Attert River basin (NW Luxembourg), using metal cylinders (Ø 5.6 cm) to extract soil cores. Our objective was to determine whether a single cylinder or a mix of several is needed to obtain a representative sample of the community of a certain site. Different statistical analyses (ANOVA, PerMANOVA and Mantel test) have been carried out to assess the reliability of the sampling method and give some recommendations for a routine sampling. Inside each site, no differences were found between single and mixed samples for their species composition or diatom-based quality index values. However, the species richness and diversity had significant differences in the only natural (forest) sampled site. The method here presented has proven to be useful for obtaining representative soil diatom samples and its use is recommended following the advices presented in this work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of edaphic and orographic factors on the formation of algal diversity in biological soil crusts was studied in mountain tundras of the Polar and Subpolar Urals. Bare spots developed in the soils on different parent materials and overgrown to different extents were investigated. Overall, 221 algal species from six divisions were identified. Among them, eighty-eight taxa were new for the region studied. The Stigonema minutum, S. ocellatum, Nostoc commune, Gloeocapsopsis magma, Scytonema hofmannii, Leptolyngbya foveolarum, Pseudococcomyxa simplex, Sporotetras polydermatica species and species of the Cylindrocystis, Elliptochloris, Fischerella, Leptosira, Leptolyngbya, Myrmecia, Mesotaenium, Phormidium, Schizothrix genera were permanent components of biological soil crusts. The basis of the algal cenoses in soil crusts was composed of cosmopolitan cyanoprokaryotes, multicellular green algae with thickened covers and abundant mucus. The share of nitrogen fixers was high. The physicochemical properties of primary soils forming under the crusts of spots are described. The more important factors affecting the species composition of algae in the crusts are the elevation gradient, temperature, soil moisture, and the contents of Ca, Mg, mobile phosphorus, and total nitrogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil algal bioassays have been limited by their inability to evaluate several toxic endpoints because it is difficult to collect pure soil algae growing on and beneath the soil surface. This study describes the extension of a previously developed paper-disc method for analyzing soil toxicity to algae. The method can be used in conjunction with flow cytometric analysis and facilitates the assessment of previously proposed toxicity endpoints, such as the growth zone, biomass, and photosynthetic activity. We assessed the applicability of this paper-disc soil method using the green algae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii and Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata exposed to nickel-contaminated soil; examined cell sizes, cell granularity, enzyme activity, and oxidative stress as new toxicity endpoints using flow cytometry; and identified morphological changes in green algae assayed. The results showed that, used in conjunction with flow cytometry, the extended paper-disc soil method is sufficiently sensitive to detect decreases in cell granularity in C. reinhardtii and esterase activity in P. subcapitata . The method also revealed decreases in growth zone, biomass, and electron transfer from the reaction center to the quinone pool. Collectively, the results of this study indicate that soil algal bioassays using nonspecific algae can be used to assess soil quality, to derive several toxicity endpoints for individual cells, and to evaluate previously established flow cytometric toxicity endpoints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rational use of natural resources in conditions of modern environmental management is an ongoing challenge to maintain sufficient level of wellbeing - natural resources and healthy environment in the contest of biodiversity preservation, formation of soil fertility, esthetic properties of landscapes and other ecologically important services. One way to optimize technogenic landscapes is forest recultivation - creation of stable forest ecosystems on disturbed territories, which can be powerful environmentcreation tool. The pertinent activity of animals - ecological engineers has great importance for improvement of ecological state of forest ecosystems on the recultivated territories. Soil engineers, such as earthworms, are the key organisms in functioning of soil - most important component of terrestrial ecosystem. They participate in various ecological processes and play key role in numerous ecosystem services: biogeochemical cycles support, forming of sustainable hydrological regime of territory and soil productivity, protection from the erosion. Additional natural soil biotic factor, multiplying these effects - algae, which reflect biogenic grade of soil and their naturalization in conditions of forest recultivation. Although, soil algae and earthworms are important components, supporting soil fertility, biogenic relationship of these groups of organisms, especially in the conditions of forest recultivation, remains largely unstudied The aim of the research is to evaluate the impact of pedotrubation and tropho-metabolic activity of earthworms (Oligochaeta: Lumbricidae) on resettlement of soil algaflora representatives within maple (Acer platanoides L.) plantation on the soil recultivation plot in Western Donbass in the Steppe zone of Ukraine. In fresh coprolites of earthworms Aporrectodea caliginosa on the studied plot, five species of soil algae (Chlorella vulgaris Beijerinck, Botrydiopsis eriensis Snow, Phormidium retzii (Agardn) Gomont, Bracteococcus sp., Chlorococcum pulchrum Archibald et Bold) were found. They belong to divisions Chlorophyta, Cуаnophyta, Xantophyta and represented by Ch- and P-living forms, which can dwell in artificial forest ecosystem with severehydrothermal conditions. Such representatives as Phormidium retzii, Chlorococcum pulchrum, Botrydiopsis eriensis were present only in soil and coprolites on the soil surface. This indicates their rise to the soil surface in result of tropho-metabolic and pedotrubation activity of worms. This allows considering that, earthworms in the studied plot of soil recultivation contribute to redistributions and resettlement of soil algae, their exploration to new territories, and ultimately - naturalization of artificial edaphotopes of forest plantations in recultivated lands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Non-vascular plants such as mosses, lichens and especially microalgae are widespread in terrestrial ecosystems, but their contribution in the nutrient cycling and energy budget of soil food webs is generally neglected. Despite a relatively low total biomass, soil microalgae can be very productive and contribute to the diet of many soil decomposers such as Collembola. Using 15 N/ 14 N ratios we showed that phycophagy is of particular importance for Collembola in extreme habitats like rock surfaces, or seasonally during the wintertime. In such situations, non-vascular plants can represent the major part of the diet of Collembola. In a temperate spruce forest partial phytophagy was observed for epigeic collembolan species. These species account for about half of the total biomass of litter-dwelling springtails. Experimental blackout of the forest floor affected population density and species richness of Collembola along with their δ 15 N values, confirming the importance of soil microalgae for maintaining the structure of collembolan communities. These results support the emerging view that soil phototrophic microorganisms should be considered an important channel for nutrient cycling in soil communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The problem of the degradation of land ecosystems and their underlying basis – the soil – has a global character. In some regions of Ukraine, such as the Western Donbass, it becomes particularly topical. The damaged areas formed during coal mining are restored through reclamation. One of its directions is forest reclamation. Soil algae constitute an active autotrophic part of the microbiota. They are connected with all its autotrophic, heterotrophic components and with the soil. They play a great role in the accumulation and transformation of organic matter, contributing to the creation of soil fertility. This explains the importance of algae in the process of restoration of damaged soils. Algae participate in the formation of primary products for primary consumers of such soil saprophages as two-bipartite petioles, woodlice, earthworms, collembola, oribatei. These animals act as a natural soil-protecting biological factor, as well as the factor of naturalization of soils in the restoration of damaged areas. They cause redistribution of algae communities composition as a result of their selective eating, thus affecting the number of their communities. The selection of soil samples and forest litter has been carried out in the plantations of Norway maple in the experimental-production site of forest reclamation in the territory of the Western Donbas (Ukraine). The structure of the domination of algae complexes, the vital forms of the representatives of the coenoses of soil algae in the plantation of Acer platanoides L. on various stratigraphic variants of piled edaphotopes – on a variant with a potentially fertile terrain (non-humous loess loam) and on several chernozem variants with different stratigraphy has been studied. The representatives of green algae (Chlorophyta) predominate in the investigated re-cultivated area in the plantations of Norway maple. The participation of green algae in the composition of soil algae groupings shows the sylvatizative role of the tree plantations in the restored territories. In the plantations of Norway maple on the various stratigraphic variants of piled edaphotopes, an increase in the number of species from 8 in the area with the fill of loess loam up to 15 in a chernozem variant with a half-meter layer of sand has been noted. In general, for maple plantations on chernozem fills, a larger number of species (from 10 to 15) has been observed compared to the maple plantation on the loess loam fill. On the one hand, the small species variety indicates very rough conditions for the existence of soil algae flora, on the other hand, the appearance and occurring of species characteristic of forest ecosystems, indicates the processes of their naturalization in the re-cultivated territories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The soil quality of remediated land is altered and this land consequently exerts unexpected biological effects on terrestrial organisms. Therefore, field evaluation of such land should be conducted using biological indicators. Algae are a promising new biological indicator since they are a food source for organisms in higher soil trophic levels and easily sampled from the soil. Field evaluation of soil characteristics is preferred to be testing in laboratory conditions because many biological effects cannot be duplicated during laboratory evaluations. Herein, we describe a convenient and rapid algae-soaked disc seeding assay for assessing soil quality in the field based on soil algae. The collection of algae is easy and rapid and the method predicts the short-term quality of contaminated, remediated, and amended farm and paddy soils. The algae-soaked disc seeding assay is yet to be extensively evaluated, and the method cannot be applied to loamy sand soil in in situ evaluations. The algae-soaked disc seeding assay is recommended for prediction of soil quality in in situ evaluations because it reflects all variations in the environment. The algae-soaked disc seeding assay will help to develop management strategies for in situ evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]