THE ESTIMATION OF NUMBERS AND PIGMENT CONTENT IN EPIPELIC ALGAL POPULATIONS

Abstract

Techniques for estimating the numbers of free‐living algae on submerged sediments and soils are reviewed. A method that gives an estimate of the numbers of algae per unit area of habitat is described. Its reliability is defined statistically, and optimum method designs are discussed. An adaptation of the procedure allows the pigment contents of the algal populations to be determined.