RT Journal Article SR Electronic A1 Pithart, David T1 Algae as co-creators of their own environment [in Czech] JF Czech Phycology YR 2002 VO 2 IS 1 SP 75 OP 82 UL https://fottea.czechphycology.cz/artkey/fot-200201-0009.php AB Story of plankton seasonal course in small pond priest pot in NW England is taken as an example of self-structuration of vertically stratified lake ecosystem. From spring to the end of summer, the stratification enhances, species diversity increases. Rather than competition for existing niches, niches are co-created by organisms themselves - by changing their micro - environment. Positive feedback: more complex structure - more niches - higher biodiversity - more complex structure is evident. So-called a-biotic gradients in vertical water column are produced and maintained by permanent life activity of organisms.