Ecological and taxonomic observations on subaerial epilithic algae from Princess Elizabeth Land and Mac.Robertson Land, Antarctica

Abstract

Subaerial epilithic algae were encountered for the first time at locations in Princess Elizabeth Land and Mac.Robertson Land, Antarctica. The flora was predominantly of cyanophytes, particularly from the genera Chroococcidiopsis, Gloeocapsa, Myxosarcina and Calothrix with frequently associated oscillatoriacean algae. The black to dark-brown epilithic growths developed where thin films of water percolated over rock surfaces for a sufficiently prolonged period during summer. They were only found where late-lying snow drifts persisted during summer and in areas which were not affected by salt spray. The majority of these growths were on lee-slopes protected from the prevailing winds.