Snow algae blooms are beneficial for microinvertebrates assemblages (Tardigrada and Rotifera) on seasonal snow patches in Japan

Abstract Although studies on snow algae and macroinvertebrates have been frequently conducted patches, only few surveys focused microinvertebrates which reach high biomass play various trophic roles in other cold habitats. The aims of this study were (1) to search for seasonal surface patches located the slope Mt. Gassan, northern Japan, (2) identify factors determining their distribution associated with algal blooms colorations (orange, green, golden-brown) collected from same sampling site over two seasons (2018, 2019). Microscopic observation revealed presence major groups microinvertebrates: Tardigrada Rotifera. They concentrated green colored by Chloromonas sp. comparison orange or golden-brown a found white snow. Mean body length tardigrades increased throughout melt season, intestine content was they laid eggs These results suggest that preferentially grew reproduced patches. Population densities tardigrades, rotifers concentration chlorophyll significantly correlated. Our indicates temperate mountainous forests constitute important unique low-temperature ecosystems microinvertebrates. Snow covered is an unrecognized novel habitats rotifers.