New records of Palisada tenerrima and Hincksia mitchelliae from the Maltese Islands revealed by molecular analysis

We report two new algal records from the Maltese islands: Hincksia mitchelliae (= Feldmannia mitchelliae) (Phaeophyceae) and Palisada tenerrima (Rhodophyceae). The former species was grown in culture an Ulva sp. blade, while latter collected field. Our study employed innovative integrative approach including morphological criteria as well molecular analysis. DNA data subsequent phylogenetic analysis of COI gene rbcL plus RuBisCO spacer supported separation these closest-related congeners that had previously been reported islands.