TAXONOMIC REASSESSMENT OF THE GENUS PADINA (DICTYOTALES, PHAEOPHYTA) IN THE GULF OF CALIFORNIA, MÉXICO

• Published in: Journal of phycology Vol. 36; no. s3; p. 54
• Main Authors: Paul-Chávez, L., Riosmena-Rodriguez, R., Angeles-Pérez, A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Boston, MA, USA Blackwell Science Inc 01.12.2000
• Subjects: Dictyotales; Marine; Padina concrescens; Padina durvillaei; Padina mexicana; Phaeophyta; ISE, Mexico, California Gulf
• ISSN: 0022-3646; 1529-8817
• DOI: 10.1046/j.1529-8817.1999.00001-160.x

Padina is one of the most important genera in the coastal zone of the Gulf of California because of their biomass. Eight species have been recorded for the area: P. tetrastromatica, P. durvillaei, P. gymnospora, P. mexicana, P. caulencens, P. concrescens, P. crispata y P. vikeersiae based on taxonomic and floristic studies. Unfortunately, until today, a comparative study of all these species in a modern context was not available. Intensive surveys in 100 localities around the area yield more than 1000 specimes and 500 slides were analyzed and compared with relevant types. Taxonomic evaluations were developed using 16 characters commonly used in the literature. As a result of our analysis, only five characters can discriminate species. Based on character analysis and comparisons with proper type material, only three species can be recognized in the zone: P. concrencens, P. durvillaei and P. mexicana. In the case of P. crispata, we conclude that it is a heterotypic synonym for P. mexicna. But in the case of P. gymnospora, P. tetrastromatica and P. vikersiae, all previous records represent mis‐identifications.