The distribution and abundance of diatom species epiphytic to Sphagnum.

Abstract

Three randomly chosen hummocks were sampled for sphagnum and diatom species compositions in order to examine the specificity of diatom species for microhabitats. As well, the pH was taken from a portion of each sample to see if it played a role in the distribution of diatom species epiphytic to the sphagnum species. Correlation analyses were conducted between the relative abundance of diaton species and the relative abundance of sphagnum species. As well, correlation analyses of the relative abundance of diatom species versus pH were done. With few exceptions, the diatom species did not occur preferentially on certain sphagnum species or at a particular pH. Diatom species do not seem to have specific requirements for pH or sphagnum species.