Summary
A comprehensive study of benthic diatoms in the Xochimilco-Tláhuac wetland, Mexico, reveals 91 taxa, a more than 50% increase from previous records. This research highlights the ecological significance of diatom composition, which is closely linked to environmental factors such as silica variation and pH. The study identified dominant species like Nitzschia frustulum and Pseudostaurosira brevistriata, typically found in shallow, eutrophic waters, suggesting their potential use as ecological indicators for monitoring the health of this UNESCO-listed site. By analyzing 13 collections over dry and rainy seasons, the authors established a framework to categorize diatom presence based on habitat fragmentation and local environmental conditions, providing a robust dataset for future conservation efforts.
Citation
Buendía-Flores, M., Tavera, R., & Novelo, E. (2015). Florística y ecología de diatomeas bentónicas de la zona lacustre de Xochimilco-Tláhuac, México. Botanical Sciences, 93(3), 531–558. https://doi.org/10.17129/botsci.148