Molecular Investigation of the Achnanthidium minutissimum Complex (Bacillariophyceae) from the Transbaikal Region with the Description of Three New Species

Representatives of the Achnanthidium minutissimum complex have been studied from Transbaikal region, Russia. The region is known for its unique algal flora and high levels endemism. Despite group monoraphid diatoms being quite extensively in this recent years, only four species reported so far. Three new are described based on LM SEM microphotographs molecular data: baicalonanum sp. nov., A. obscurum nov. angustum Comparison with similar given. differ other genus by valve shape, striae areolae structure, shape external distal raphe ends central area. According to data, form separate branches within complex. Ecological preferences examined. All region. This study contributes understanding taxonomy biogeography will be an asset future biomonitoring studies.