Morphological and molecular characterization of the genus <italic>Coolia</italic> (Dinophyceae) from Bahía de La Paz, southwest Gulf of California

The genus Coolia A. Meunier 1919 has a global distribution and is common member of epiphytic dinoflagellate assemblages in neritic ecosystems. monotis the type species was only known for 76 years. Over past few decades, molecular characterization unveiled two complexes that group morphologically very similar species, so their limits are often unclear. To provide new knowledge on biogeography composition Coolia, 16 strains were isolated from Bahía de La Paz, Gulf California. identified by applying morphological approaches. morphometric characteristics all consistent with original taxa descriptions. Phylogenetic analyses (large subunit [LSU] rDNA D1 / D2 internal transcribed spacer [ITS] 1 5.8S ITS2) revealed assemblage comprising malayensis, C. palmyrensis, tropicalis, cf. canariensis lineage. This first report palmyrensis Mexico tropicalis Our results strengthen biogeographical understanding these potentially harmful species.