Appraisal of the Genus Pleurastrum (Chlorophyta) Based on Molecular and Climate Data

Two green microalgal strains, CCCryo 469-16 and 470-16, were isolated from samples of Antarctic microflora. Their morphology 18S rRNA sequences indicated a phylogenetic relationship with strains the genera Chlorococcum Meneghini, Macrochloris Korshikov, Pleurastrum Chodat. The last genus is considered particularly problematic as it underwent several revisions. Moreover, its type strain, P. insigne SAG 30.93, was recently demonstrated to coincide genetically authentic strain oleofaciens an phylogeny. This deprived important reference. Thus, molecular markers rbcL, tufA, ITS employed identify isolates more precisely. Several other microalgae related our obtained international culture collections for comparison. results allowed re-establishment 30.93 reference definition borders both Chlorococcum. Based on findings, species are now re-attributed Pleurastrum, well rubrioleum, here re-named rubrioleum comb. nov., which also belong. Finally, between lineages climate zones established.