Pioneer species of Cyanobacteria in hot springs and their role to travertine formation: The case of Aedipsos hot springs, Euboea (Evia), Greece

Abstract Cyanobacteria are considered to be among the first microorganisms settle in hot springs where they form a favourable environment for further biological establishment. Nevertheless, exact pioneer species and how early start participating biomineralisation processes remain unknown. The aim of present study was twofold, that is, identify (i.e. Aedipsos area, Greece) record their processes. situ experimental approach included setup sterile glass and/or plexiglass slides several locations facilitate colonisation by Cyanobacteria, removal after 48–202 h. Synechococcales (37%) Oscillatoriales (33%) were dominant orders, followed Chroococcales (15%) Spirulinales (11%); whereas Chroococcidiopsidales (4%) found only few sites. order Nostocales not observed at stages although it mature stages. Forty‐three identified as microorganisms, with Spirulina subtilissima being most frequently found. common pioneers multicellular filamentous organisms large surface area able significant amounts extracellular polymeric substances. Among pioneers, thermophilic typical such Chroococcidiopsis thermalis , Chroococcus Leptolyngbya S. Symploca well limestone substrate lithophilus laminosa . Temperature seems affect biodiversity. Also, contribute from appearance. In studied samples, three identified, (i) calcification cyanobacterial sheaths, (ii) trapping carbonate crystals on crystal retention lattice formed substances filaments (iii) confinement around Cyanobacteria.