Identification of free-living geniculare coralline red algae (Corallinales, Rhodophyta) in a unique algal bed formation from Brazil and a description of Jania Cabista SP. NOV.

Abstract

Previously unknown free-living geniculate coralline algae (GCA) beds were found along the Arraial do Cabo Bay, Brazil. Ecological surveys have shown the importance of these algae in structuring benthic environments. The aim of this research was to identify the species of GCA commonly present in the beds of Arraial do Cabo Bay based on combining morpho-anatomical and molecular analyses. The GCA`s species identified in this study were compared based on detailed anatomical descriptions, especially the reproductive structures, with closely related species described for Brazil and worldwide. Two species belonging to the geniculate genera Amphiroa and Jania are the main components. Molecular analyses inferred from one plastid marker (psbA) combined with morpho-anatomical features led us to propose Jania cabista Tâmega, Spotorno & Peña, sp. nov., and the resurrection of Amphiroa exilis W.H. Harvey (1849) for this unique formation.