Present state of the systematics of planktonic coccoid green algae of inland waters

This review discusses the main developments in the systematics of coccoid green algae over the last three decades. The relationships of key groups of planktonic coccoid green algae are shown in the phylogenetic trees of Chlorophyceae and Trebouxiophyceae. The trees clearly show that the morphology o...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Hydrobiologia 2012-11, Vol.698 (1), p.295-326
Main Authors: Krienitz, Lothar, Bock, Christina
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Algae
Animal and plant ecology
Animal, plant and microbial ecology
Aquatic ecosystems
Aquatic plants
Biological and medical sciences
Biologists
Biomedical and Life Sciences
Chlorophyceae
Ecology
Freshwater & Marine Ecology
Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology
General aspects
Inland waters
Life Sciences
Light microscopy
Morphology
Phytoplankton
Plankton
Synecology
Systematics
Taxonomy
Trebouxiophyceae
Zoology
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Summary:This review discusses the main developments in the systematics of coccoid green algae over the last three decades. The relationships of key groups of planktonic coccoid green algae are shown in the phylogenetic trees of Chlorophyceae and Trebouxiophyceae. The trees clearly show that the morphology of these algae do not adequately reflect their phylogenetic position. Different phylogenetic species can be hidden under one and the same morphotype. As most of the genera have a polyphyletic origin, they are in need of a systematic re-evaluation. Species classification using the phylogenetic species concept resulted in the establishment of new genera with smaller numbers of species and the description of new species that are not distinguishable by light microscopy. An overview of genera is given in tables and the revised designations of species as contained in the harmonized taxon list of the European Water Framework Directive lists is provided. In this transitional phase from an artificial to a more natural systematics of algae, field biologists and ecologists as well as molecular biologists must strengthen their interdisciplinary cooperation. The alignment of eco-functional groups of algae with true species identities using the barcoding conception will provide a better understanding of the interaction between organisms and their environment.
ISSN:0018-8158
1573-5117
DOI:10.1007/s10750-012-1079-z