Cladocera remains in reconstructions of past ecological conditions of the Yamal Peninsula

Abstract

The aim of this study is to explore the Cladocera community from the bottom sediments of small unnamed lake (21-Ya-02B) whilst attempt to reconstruct the ecological and climatic conditions for the Yamal Peninsula. In total, remains of 37 taxa were identified in bottom sediments of the lake. Cladocera community in the lower layers at the column is represented by low taxonomic abundance and typical northern species. On the depth of 65-40 cm the maximum number of taxa was identified, which allows it to be considered the temperature optimum zone of Cladocera.  Changes in the upper layers of the column may indicate climate warming in the study area and, as a consequence, thawing of permafrost.