Epilithic Diatoms in Kelkit Creek (Tokat)

Abstract

In this study, monthly variations of epilithic diatoms in Kelkit Creek (Tokat) were studied from stone samples taken from two stations between March - December 2018: one station below the settlement area and the other one below agricultural areas. During this study, 18 taxa which belong to epilithic diatoms were recorded. Cymbella (3 taxa) and Nitzschia (3 taxa) were the diatoms mostly represented by the taxa, and Ulnaria ulna had the highest relative density recorded in both stations throughout the months. Sorensen Similarity Index was calculated as %56.41 between the two station diatoms. Also, temperature and dissolved oxygen measurements were done on the water samples taken from the stations. The measured variables were confirmed to make positive effects on the growth of diatoms in epiliton. Relative densities of the types of diatoms that were found in the epilithic flora were determined. In hand according to the results, the lowest relative density was recorded as 4.76 in march (Cymbella affinis) at Station 1 and 2.83 in march (Lindavia glomerata) at Station 2. Considering the highest relative density values, Navicula radiosa and Ulnaria ulna species were determined in december (13.56) at Station 1 and in march (9.43) for Ulnaria ulna at Station 2.