Related Diatom
Tabularia affinis
The Related Diatom (Tabularia affinis) is a widespread pennate diatom predominantly found in brackish water habitats and coastal regions. Its cells are elongated and often form characteristic fan-like colonies on solid substrates or macroalgae. As a photoautotrophic organism, it contributes significantly to primary production in estuarine ecosystems. The species is considered a bioindicator for saline to brackish waters with moderate nutrient levels.
Details
Oxygen production
High relative to biomass during the light phase.
Habitat function
Serves as a periphyton habitat and food base for microfauna.
Nutrient uptake
Uptake of dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus from the water column.
Food source for
Crustaceans, gastropods, and other benthic grazers.
Human use
Used in biological water monitoring and paleolimnology.
Ecology
Ecological role
Important primary producer and oxygen supplier in aquatic ecotones.
Natural predators
Zooplankton, benthic invertebrates, and small grazers.
Competitor species
Other epiphytic diatoms such as Cocconeis spp. or Licmophora spp.
Ecosystem service
Oxygen production and carbon sequestration in coastal ecosystems.
Threats
Excessive eutrophication, herbicide pollution, and destruction of coastal habitats.
Scientific profile
Protection & threats
Main threats
Excessive eutrophication (hypertrophication), chemical contamination by herbicides, and drastic changes in the salinity regime due to hydraulic engineering measures.