XVI International Botanical Congess

A new algal isolate within the Klebsormidiales has been discovered. Originally identified as Stichococcus, this new isolate appears also to be closely related to Klebsormidium. Therefore, a comprehensive study of the morphology, physiology, and genetic traits of the new and of established Stichococcus and Klebsormidium species is underway. The cultures were grown at 16:8 L:D and 25? C. Cellular dimensions, chloroplast health and variation, cell structure, and the presence of particular organelles have been studied. Cultures were periodically observed under both stereoscope and light-microscope. Physiological assessment of 2-week old algal cultures were carried out. Data was collected on algal cell counts, chlorophyll a readings, and biomass. The molecular genetic portion of the project included PCR and nucleotide sequencing of 18S rDNA. The novel isolate under study appears to be an intermediate stage of both genera. Further research is ongoing to establish the relationship between Stichococcus and Klebsormidium and the taxonomic position of our unknown isolate.