First record of the cyanobacterial genus <italic>Wilmottia</italic> (Coleofasciculaceae, Oscillatoriales) from the South Orkney Islands (Antarctica)

Two cyanobacterial morphotypes isolated from Signy Island, South Orkney Islands, maritime Antarctica were characterised using a polyphasic approach combining morphological, cytological and molecular analyses. These analyses showed that the strains grouped with members of genus Wilmottia. This currently includes three species, W. murrayi, stricta, koreana. Both analysed in this study placed within clade murrayi. well-supported separation Antarctic New Zealand strains, as well other regions. murrayi was first described is now known several Confirmation occurrence at Island significantly extends its distribution Antarctica. In addition, new combination, arthurensis, suggested for Phormidium arthurensis. Key words: cyanobacteria; distribution; analysis; taxonomy; 16S rDNA