Comparative Analysis of Diatom Algae Diversity in the Pamir Protected Lakes, Tajikistan

A comparative analysis of diatom algae diversity in six high-altitude Pamir lakes (3,729–4,213 m) reveals a remarkable conservation of species richness within Tajik National Park. Over 300 diatom species were identified across 466 samples collected between 2000 and 2018, with freshwater lakes Turumtaykul and Rangkul hosting the most diverse communities (171 and 162 species, respectively). Statistical floristic analysis suggests water salinity as a key regulator of diatom diversity in these ecosystems. The study highlights the stability of algal floras at the genus level, particularly Pinnularia, while also identifying two distinct floristic cores. These findings underscore the high evolutionary potential and conservation value of diatom species in protected high-mountain lakes.

(Ed.). (2019). Comparative Analysis of Diatom Algae Diversity in the Pamir Protected Lakes, Tajikistan. International Journal of Advanced Research in Botany, 5(2). https://doi.org/10.20431/2455-4316.0502001