72. Carson, J. L. and R. M. Brown, Jr. 1978.
Studies of Hawaiian freshwater and soil algae. II. Colonization
and succession of algae on dated volcanic substrates. J. Phycol.
14(2):171-178.
72. Abstract
Spatial studies of colonization and succession
of` soil algae and chemical analyses of the various soils on the
cinder cone of Kilauea Iki in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park,
Hawaii are outlined. There is a positive correlation be-tween
the diversity and quantity of soil algae with nutrient levels
and organic matter accumulation in each locale. Three distinct
edaphic biotic zones existing in this area are differentially
revealed by the soil chemical composition, quantity and diversity
of soil algae, and as evident variations in higher plant growth
and colonization. Varying colonization and successional phases
of higher plant growth around standing and fallen tree snags killed
by volcanic activity also reflect variations in the soil algal
flora. These variations appear largely as a function of differential
water interception, absorption, and retention as well as differential
accumulation of organic matter, and the initiation of various
biogeochemical cycles.