Cyclotella alvarniensis (Stephanodiscaceae): Modern or fossil diatom?
- Authors
- Publication Date
- Nov 10, 2023
- Source
- Anales del Jardín Botánico de Madrid
- Keywords
- Language
- English
- License
- Green
- External links
Abstract
Cyclotella alvarniensis is considered a fossil species of diatom from the Upper Miocene. The occurrence of this species is usually associated with the proximity of diatomite exploitation areas. Frustules have been found in some regions of Spain (Murcia-Albacete), France, Switzerland, and recently in Senegal. However, the causes of their aerial dispersal and their geographical distribution are not clear. During a diatom monitoring and dispersal study carried out in the Sant Llorenç del Munt i l’Obac Natural Park (Barcelona, Spain), we recorded the presence of C. alvarniensis frustules for the first time in Catalonia. Specifically, they were found in four different types of substrates: on running water biofilm, artificial pools or mesocosms, natural disconnected pools and rehydrated dry sediments. Given the forms of occurrence of C. alvarniensis in our samples and the absence of nearby diatomite deposits, we discuss the possibility that it is also an extant species in freshwater diatom communities.
