Indicative ecological status assessment based on epilithic diatoms of small rivers at Rogozna Mountain

Abstract

Epilithic diatom community investigation of small rivers at Rogozna Mountain was conducted in order to create baseline for future surveys, since hydrobiological data are lacking. Diatom sampling and analysis was performed according to the guidance of national standards and regulations. Indicative ecological status was determined by the IPS diatom index. At investigated area a total number of 49 diatom taxa were identified. The most frequent and abundant taxa, such as Achnanthidium minutissimum, Meridion circulare and Navicula lanceolata are common for the hilly-mountain watercourses. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of diatom samples have shown excellent and good indicative ecological status of small rivers of Rogozna Mountain.