Ecology of Charophytes: Niche Dimensions of Pioneers and Habitat Engineers
摘要
This chapter is a critical review about the ecological niche dimensions of charophytes. It focuses on recent findings, revising the often-cited view of charophytes being clearwater-indicators in general. By tackling the mechanisms responsible for installation of stands, maintaining them as well as physiologigal features allowing growth under extreme conditions, the reader will be introduced into the broad variety of strategies applied by the different species to establish stands. The chapter therefore will not only serve as another overview about charophyte ecology, but aim to provide the reader a more detailed view on the habitat requirements of the individual charophytes as a prerequisite for species protection measures as well as the development of sound bioindication schemes.