Spatial distribution of cyst morphotypes of Scrippsiella acuminata complex in the Black Sea surface sediments in relation to environmental factors

The present research aimed to disclose a link between the spatial distribu- tion and abundance of di erent cyst morphotypes of Scrippsiella acuminata and in situ environmental variables Surface sediment samples collected at 30 sites in the Black Sea, were screened for Scrippsiella acuminata cyst morphotypes presence dur- ing spring and summer The cysts data were analyzed along with environmental in situ sampling site variables temperature, salinity, water transparency, Chlorophyll a, ammonia, nitrates and phosphates concentrations Canonical correspondence analysis CCA was employed to the in situ data to expand our understanding of speci c morphotypes traits environment relationships and niche breadth The analy- sis highlighted statistically signi cant model, linking Scrippsiella acuminata cysts morphotypes distribution with temperature, salinity and eutrophication