Diversity and Seasonal Distribution of Epipsammic Diatoms in Tahar Stream (Tunceli, Turkey): Diversity and Seasonal Distribution of Tahar Stream
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Freshwater ecosystems are important indicators of environmental health, with diatom communities playing a key role in assessing water quality and ecological dynamics. This study investigates the epipsammic diatoms of Tahar Stream, located 135 km from Tunceli, fed by Kırklar Creek originating from Kırklar Mountain, and discharging into Keban Dam Lake near the western part of Çemişgezek district. Epipsammic diatom samples were collected monthly from two stations between March and November 2021. In addition to diatom analysis, water temperature, dissolved oxygen, and pH levels were also recorded. A total of 26 diatom taxa were identified at each of the two stations, with Ulnaria ulna being the most abundant species at both sites. Seasonal variations in diatom abundance were observed, with peak densities occurring in March and April, coinciding with increased sunlight intensity and temperatures. The stream's water quality, indicated by pH (ranging from 7.0 to 7.3) and dissolved oxygen (7.0-8.7 mg/L), categorized the stream as Class I, signifying high-quality water. These findings contribute to the understanding of the epipsammic diatom community in the region and provide a baseline for future ecological studies of the Tahar Stream and similar freshwater habitats in Turkey.
Language: English
Topic: Diatoms and Algae Research
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7220283370