Germination and colonization success of (Raphidophyceae) cysts after dispersal to new habitats.

Colonization of new habitats through dispersal of phytoplankton cysts might be limited, if resident populations outcompete invaders during germination. We reciprocally transferred (Raphidophyceae) cysts from three lakes into native and foreign waters originating from the respective habitats. Germination rate and germling growth were impacted by water origin, but there was no preference for native water. 's ability to germinate in different conditions might explain its expansion in northern Europe.