Abstract

In 1984 a study was made of the distribution and ecology of desmids in the Skogvoll nature reserve at Andøya. The reserve is part of one of the most extenive Atlantic mire complexes in Norway
Of 194 samples the desmid species composition, the macrophytic vegetation and the hydrochemistry was examined.
About 450 species and 115 subspecies of desmids were encountered. By computer processing the 194 samples could be attributed to 12 clusters, each representing a different habitat with a diffferent composition of desmid species.
Trophic status, pH-value and the stability of the waterbody appeared to be the most important factors in discerning the clusters.