Comparative taxonomic studies on the genus Klebsormidium (Charophyceae) in Europe

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In several aspects, the green algal genus Klebsormidium (formerly known under the name Hormidium) is an important member of charophycean algae. The species play an important role in all kinds of (moist) terrestrial ecosystems. In addition, the Charophyceae including Klebsormidium are presumed to be closely related to the ancestry of the higher land plants.The present treatise is dedicated to the taxonomy of Klebsormidium species occurring in Western and Central Europe. The descriptions of the species are based on studies carried out on field material, uni-algal cultures, and type specimens. Where necessary, electron microscopy was involved to augment the understanding of the identifying quality of some light microscopic traits. Numerous line drawings and micrographs are added to the descriptions.In the present paper eight species of Klebsormidium are dealt with, among which two new species. The genealogical relationships among Klebsormidium species are determined by a phylogenetic analysis approach.It is expected that this book is of great interest to phycologists and ecologists, especially those concerned with moist terrestrial habitats.