Algae as indicators of the ecological state of water bodies: Methods and prospects

The theory, practice, and methodology of bioindication and assessment of the ecological state of aquatic ecosystems were elaborated on the basis of long-term investigations of continental water bodies and watercourses of the countries of the Former Soviet Union and of the other countries of Europe, Asia, and Middle East. The ecological state of aquatic ecosystems was assessed in terms of abiotic and biotic components. Original indices and system of ecological mapping were put forward. The methods of the indication of the influence of climatic changes on the diversity of algae, and also integral tables essential to classify water quality from the ecological point of view, are presented.