Algae ; Atoll ; Biogenic process ; Biogeochemistry ; Carbonate rock ; Coastal environment ; Indian Ocean ; Karst ; Micro-organism ; Plant colonization ; Tropical zone ; Weathering
An initial, short-term study (1982-83) of microfloral colonization on cleared plots on Quaternary reef limestones on Aldabra Atoll revealed considerable variability in colonization rates, with wetter sites and softer rocks prone to more luxuriant
growths. This paper reports on further studies of colour, biomass and effects of the developing microfloral communities from almost 100 out of the c. 300 original plots which were revisited in 1998. Many sites still show limited colonization. Where