The diversity and distribution of heterotrophic nannoflagellates in the eutrophic Lake Nero

Abstract
The fauna and abundance of heterotrophic nannoflagellates (HNF) and the quantitative distribution of their main food items (bacteria) have been studied in the highly eutrophic Lake Nero (Yaroslavskaya oblast). A total of 70 HNF species and forms were found, with representatives of the order Choanoflagellida dominant. Abundances of HNF and bacteria were high, reaching levels typical for productive waters. The pattern of HNF seasonal dynamics was characterized by two peaks in June and September and one low in August. The minimal levels of HNF coincided with the peak of bacterioplankton abundance.