Macedonian Diatom Society
Welcome
Faculty of Natural Sciences, Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje and the Macedonian Diatom Society are delighted to invite you to the 15th European Diatom Meeting which will take place from 7-9 May 2024 in the town of Ohrid. Situated on the shores of Lake Ohrid, a deep and ancient lake of tectonic origin that has existed for several million years, home of many endemic species of freshwater flora and fauna, the town of Ohrid is a major cultural center. As one of the oldest settlements in Europe, it is an architectural wonder, built mostly between the 7th and 19th century and simultaneously a home to the oldest Slav monastery St. Pantelejmon, an important medieval education institution, ancient urban architecture, more than 800 Byzantine-style icons, a whopping number of churches and Christian Basilicas and late Ottoman style architecture as well.
As a result of its geographic isolation and uninterrupted biological activity, Lake Ohrid on the other hand provides a unique refuge for numerous endemic and relict freshwater species of flora and fauna. Its oligotrophic waters contain over 300 endemic species with high levels of endemism for benthic species, including algae, diatoms, turbellarian flatworms, snails, crustaceans and fishes.
A true gem, the town of Ohrid is an incredible natural as well as cultural phenomenon, a monument of unique and important events, a living document of natural as well as human history, inviting researchers and visitors alike to revel in its remarkable blend of the scientific and artistic, adding substance to its beauty.
