Papers presented at the International Conference on Land-Water Interactions organized by National Institute of Ecology, New Delhi during 8-14 December 1991.

Algae are an important component of aquatic benthic ecosystems because they reflect the health of their environment through their density, abundance, and diversity. This comprehensive and authoritative text is divided into three sections to offer complete coverage of the discussion in this field. The first section introduces the locations of benthic algae in different ecosystems, like streams, large rivers, lakes, and other aquatic habitats. The second section is devoted to the various factors, both biotic and abiotic, that affect benthic freshwater algae. The final section of the book focuses on the role played by algae in a variety of complex freshwater ecosystems. As concern over environmental health escalates, the keystone and pivotal role played by algae is becoming more apparent. This volume in the Aquatic Ecology Series represents an important compilation of the latest research on the crucial niche occupied by algae in aquatic ecosystems. - Presents algae as the important player in relation to environmental health - Prepared by leading authorities in the field - Includes comprehensive treatment of the functions of benthic algae as well as the factors that affect these important aquatic organisms - Acts as an important reference for anyone interested in understanding and managing freshwater ecosystems

This unique textbook takes a broad look at the rapidly expanding field of freshwater microbiology. Concentrating on the interactions between viruses, bacteria, algae, fungi and micro-invertebrates, the book gives a wide biological appeal. Alongside conventional aspects such as phytoplankton characterisation, seasonal changes and nutrient cycles, the title focuses on the dynamic and applied aspects that are not covered within the current textbooks in the field. Complete coverage of all fresh water biota from viruses to invertebrates Unique focus on microbial interactions including coverage of biofilms, important communities on all exposed rivers and lakes. New information on molecular and microscopical techniques including a study of gene exchange between bacteria in the freshwater environment. Unique emphasis on the applied aspects of freshwater microbiology with particular emphasis on biodegradation and the causes and remediation of eutrophication and algal blooms.

Freshwater Microbiology: Perspectives of Bacterial Dynamics in Lake Ecosystems provides a comprehensive and systematic analysis of microbial ecology in lakes. It offers basic information on how well the bacterial community composition varies along the spatio-temporal and trophic gradients along with the evaluation of the bioindicator species of bacteria so as to act as a key to predict the trophic status of lake ecosystems. The book helps to identify the factors of potential importance in structuring the bacterial communities in lakes as it delves into the dynamics and diversity of bacterial community composition in relation to various water quality parameters. It helps to identify the possibility of bioremediation plans and devising future policy decisions, with better conservation and management practices. - Provides a comprehensive and systematic analysis of microbial ecology - Helps to identify the factors of potential importance in structuring the bacterial community composition - Gives insight into the bacterial diversity of freshwater lake ecosystems along with their industrial potential - Caters to the needs and aspirations of students and professional researchers

Microbial diversity and freshwater ecosystems freshwater environments: the influence of physico-chemical conditions on microbial communities -- Freshwater environments : the influence of physico-chemical conditions on microbial communities -- Algae : the major microbial biomass in freshwater systems -- Competition for light -- Inorganic nutrients : uptake and cycling in freshwater systems -- Bacteria : the main heterotrophic microorganisms in freshwater systems -- Viruses : major parasites in the freshwater environment -- Fungi and fungal-like organisms : aquatic biota with a mycelial growth form -- Grazing activities in the freshwater environment : the role of protozoa and invertebrates -- Eutrophication : the microbial response to high nutrient levels.