Benthic diatom flora of freshwater and saline lakes in the Larsemann Hills and Rauer Islands, East Antarctica

• DOI: 10.1017/s095410200300124x
• Publication Date: 2003-10-16T08:39:57Z
• Authors: KOEN SABBE; E. VERLEYEN; D.A. HODGSON; K. VANHOUTTE; W. VYVERMAN
• Keywords: Endemism; Cosmopolitan distribution; Floristics; Flora; Limnology

A floristic and taxonomic survey was made of the diatom communities sediments microbial mats in 66 freshwater saline lakes pools Larsemann Hills, Rauer Islands Bølingen (continental eastern Antarctica). total 31 taxa were distinguished, 10 which could not be identified to species (nine) or even generic (one) level, either because they have most probably yet been described belong complexes that are need revision. Four new combinations proposed; three reported for first time from continental Antarctica, while another confirmed Antarctica time. Analysis literature data on Antarctic lacustrine diatoms shows practice has a profound influence assessment distribution patterns. Force-fitting European North American names erroneous identifications contributed an underestimation endemism flora inland waters. In addition, changing concepts boundaries during last decade interpretation biogeographic The application more fine grained taxonomy will almost certainly reveal higher degree especially Antarctica. present case study Hills endemics account about 40% all brackish taxa, 26% is unknown, mainly due their uncertain identity. This contradicts view cosmopolitanism prevails diatoms.