Vertical distribution of ciliate pedobionts in the forest and cultivated soils of Samur-Yalama national park

Abstract

Vertical distribution of ciliate pedobionts have been investigated (studied) in the forest and cultivated soils in the territory of Samur-Yalama National Park. It has been found that the greatest diversity of species and the total number of ciliates pedobionts occur in the uppermost soil horizons of 0,5-15cm in spring and autumn. Large facultative species which are common for aquatic habitats, and true pedobionts adapted to life in the thickness of the soil are clearly distinguished in the communities of soil ciliates. Determined factors of the distribution of ciliates in the thickness of the soil are its humidity, the presence of food and human impact.