Vaucheria (Heterokontophyta, Vaucheriaceae) from the Maltese Islands (Central Mediterranean)

Abstract

The Vaucheria species list of the Maltese Islands is reviewed based on literature and collected material. Since many collections were sterile, culture was necessary for identification. Eleven species of Vaucheria have been found from saline and freshwater habitats, including several additions to previous lists, namely Vaucheria cruciata, Vaucheria dillwynii, Vaucheria longicaulis, Vaucheria pseudogeminata and Vaucheria synandra. In addition, Vaucheria mulleola was recorded again. Several other past records remain unidentified.