The pseudodichotomous Dasya sylviae sp. nov. (Delesseriaceae, Ceramiales) from 60–90 m mesophotic reefs off Bermuda

• DOI: 10.5852/ejt.2021.751.1377
• Publication Date: 2021-05-27T07:38:52Z
• Authors: Craig W. Schneider; Margaret M. Cassidy; Gary W. Saunders
• Keywords: Ceramiales; Type locality

The red alga Dasya sylviae C.W.Schneid., M.M.Cassidy & G.W.Saunders sp. nov. is described from mesophotic depths of 60–90 m off Bermuda. Genetic sequences (COI-5P, rbcL) and morphological characteristics show that this species distinct other known pseudodichotomous Dasya. Of ten current in the genus reported Bermuda, only three, D. collinsiana M.Howe, cryptica Quach C.E.Lane punicea (Zanardini) Menegh., share overall pattern branching their axes; however, key features easily distinguish them most similar habit to crouaniana J.Agardh (type locality West Indies), but it bears shorter pseudolateral branches, broader longer tetrasporangial stichidia than new species. Unique among Dasya, lacks post-sporangial cover cells stichidia.