Kalashnik K. Morphofunctional organization of the basiphyte-epiphyte algosystem in the north-western section of the Black Sea

The thesis deals with the morphofunctional organization of the basiphyte-epiphyte algosystem in the north-western section of the Black Sea. The development patterns of the basiphyte-epiphyte algosystem's various-sized components have been studied depending on seasonal changes, substrate types, growth depth, surface orientation and the water-body's trophic status. On the grounds of the data obtained, we propose a method for expert assessment of the ecological status of marine coastal ecosystems according to the requirements of the Water Framework Directive and the EU Marine Strategy based on the indicators of the basiphyte-epiphyte algosystem - the coverage of basiphyte by epiphytes (P(b/e), %) and the surface ratio of the basiphyte and epiphytes (SIb/SIe, units). The present-day ecological state of water-bodies in the north-western section of the Black Sea (NWBS), marked by different level of human impact, has been assessed. In the conditions of NWBS, the Yagorlytska and Tendrivska Gulfs are estimated as reference water-bodies, distinguished by undisturbed natural conditions.