CYANOBACTERIAL COMMUNITIES IN HYPERSALINE LAGOONS OF LAKE SIVASH

The results of studies on microbial communities in hypersaline lagoons of Arabatskaya Strelka (Lake Sivash) are summarized. Cyanobacterial c ommunities in these lagoons function as a trophic entity with cycled f luxes of matter. Mat-forming Microcoleus chthonoplastes is a primary p roducer in the association and its metabolism is adapted to diurnal va riations. Anaerobic degradation of osmoregulatory compounds is a chara cteristic feature of the halophilic association. Trophic pathways and new microorganisms which realize decomposition of osmoprotectors are d escribed. Lithification processes in communities are shown.