investigations on the desmid biodiversity of certain...
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Investigations on the Desmid
Biodiversity of Certain Regions
of Eastern Himalayas
Thesis submitted to The University of Burdwan
For the Degree of
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN BOTANY
By
DEBJYOTI DAS
Department of Botany, The University of Burdwan
Burdwan – 713104, West Bengal, India
2013
Dedicated to
my beloved
teacher
Golam Mustafa
Date: 14/03/2013
Certified that Mr. Debjyoti Das has carried out the investigation
incorporated in the thesis entitled “Investigations on the Desmid
Biodiversity of certain regions of Eastern Himalayas” under my
supervision and guidance. He has fulfilled the requirements as per
regulation of the University of Burdwan. The thesis which embodied
the results of his original investigations is submitted in partial
fulfillment of the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Science of the
University of Burdwan.
As far as I know, the results incorporated in the present thesis have
not been submitted for any other degree or diploma elsewhere.
(JAI PRAKASH KESHRI)
Dr. Jai Prakash Keshri
Associate Professor in Botany
Department of Botany
The University of Burdwan Burdwan 713104
West Bengal, India Phone : (0342)2556549 (EPBX) Extn. 418
(0342)2656427 Direct (0342) 2659087 (R)
Fax : 91-0342-2656427
Gram : BURDSITY
e-mail [email protected]
DECLARATION
I hereby declare that the thesis entitled “Investigations on the
Desmid Biodiversity of certain regions of Eastern Himalayas”
submitted for the Ph.D. degree has not been previously submitted by
me for any degree or diploma of any other University.
PLACE:
DATE:
(DEBJYOTI DAS)
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I hereby express my deep sense of gratitude and respect to my supervisor & guide Dr.
Jai Prakash Keshri, Associate Professor in Botany, CAS in Botany, The University of
Burdwan for his kind supervision throughout the entire period of project work.
I am also grateful to Late Golam Mustafa and Mr. Akshoy Kr. Chakrabarty, teachers
of Phycology Laboratory of this department for their various help and suggestions.
I acknowledge University Grants Commission (UGC), New Delhi, for financial
assistance.
I express my deep sense of gratitude to Home Department, Government of Sikkim,
for necessary permission for exploration to some of the restricted localities and help
extended.
My sincere thanks are due to the Forest Department and Secretariat, Government of
Sikkim, for necessary permission to visit the areas under their control.
I am grateful to Head of the Department, CAS in Botany, The University of Burdwan
for providing laboratory facilities.
I would like to express sincere regard to all the teachers of this department for their
valuable suggestions.
I am thankful to Dr. Gautam Ganguly for his help and suggestions related to field
collection.
I am extremely thankful to Baisakhi Mukherjee, Banasri Mahata, Subhabrata Ghosh,
Surajit Roy, Jayanta Sikdar, Shilpa Datta and Mousumi Das, research scholars of the
Phycology section of this department for their cooperation and support in various
ways.
I am also grateful to all the staffs and non-teaching members specially Mr. Kaushik
Sarkar, of this department for various help.
I am also indebted all other scholars of this department for their support.
I express my appreciation to authority of Botanical Survey of India (BSI), especially
to Dr. R.K. Gupta, Scientists, BSI, for providing necessary permission for library
access.
I am extremely thankful to all my friends to conspire and enhance my confidence.
Finally I convey my deep sense of admire and regards to my parents and family
members for their endurance and encouragement during this research work.
CONTENTS
SUMMARY i-ii
INTRODUCTION 1-6
REVIEW OF LITERATURE 7-28
MATERIAL AND METHODS 29-37
ECOLOGY 38-39
STSTEMATIC PART 40-222
GENERAL DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION 223-231
LITERATURE CITED 232-249
FIGURES PLATE 1-30
ABBREVIATIONS USED
B : Breadth
C : Celsius
cc. : Cubic Centimeter
f. : Figure/Figures
ft : Feet
F : Fahrenheit
gms. : Grams
km : Kilometer
L : Length
ml : Milliliter
No. : Number
pH : Hydrogen Ion Concentrations
Pl. : Plate
temp. : Temperature
µm : Micrometer
i
SUMMARY
In the present systematic study certain regions of Eastern Himalaya including most
part of Sikkim and northern region of West Bengal (Kalimpong, Lava, Lolegaon etc.)
were selected. Total 1000 algal samples were collected from almost all accessible
localities and habitats from these regions. pH, temperature and brief ecological notes
were taken in the collection spots. All the collections were preserved in FAA solution
in amber coloured bottles and stored in the algal herbarium in the Phycology sections,
The University of Burdwan. Water samples were preserved in Lugols’ iodine solution
in the ratio of 100:1 for planktonic desmids. Algal samples were observed under
compound microscope and camera-lucida drawings were made. Photomicrographs of
desmids were also taken. Total 272 taxa under 27 genera of desmid have been
identified using standard monographs and available literature. Out of 272 taxa 25
members under 7 genera include Saccoderm desmids and 247 members under 20
genera belonging to Placoderms. 24 taxa under 3 genera (Actinotaenium, Closterium
& Cosmarium) have been described as new to science. In addition one new
combination under Cosmarium [C. cohnii (Nobilis) Keshri et Das] has also been
proposed. A list of new taxa is appended. 6 genera (Ancylonema, Roya, Spirotaenia,
Teilingia, Triplastrum and Triploceras) are new addition to the desmid flora of
Eastern Himalaya. 86 taxa under 18 genera are new addition to Indian desmid flora,
and 172 taxa are new addition to Eastern Himalayan desmid flora. Several lakes and
stagnant water bodies has been found better availability for desmid vegetation. They
have been found to grow in association with mosses and other angiospermic weeds of
which water pH was found little acidic. From altitude of above 17,000 ft several
desmid taxa have also been reported.
Following are the names of taxa proposed as new to science:
1. Actinotaenium sikkimicum sp. nov.
2. Closterium bitangchoianum sp. nov.
3. Closterium mamenchoeanum sp. nov.
4. Closterium pseudocynthia sp. nov.
5. Closterium pseudoincurvum sp. nov.
6. Closterium reticulatum sp. nov.
ii
7. Closterium sikkimicum sp. nov.
8. Cosmarium pseudocyclicum sp. nov.
9. Cosmarium pseudodebaryi sp. nov.
10. Cosmarium pseudolundellii sp. nov.
11. Cosmarium pseudoobsoletum sp. nov.
12. Cosmarium sikkimicum sp. nov.
13. Cosmarium subphaseolanum sp. nov.
14. Cosmarium yoksomum sp. nov.
15. Closterium arcuarium Hughes var. sikkimense var. nov.
16. Closterium libellula Focke ex Nordstedt var. sikkimense var. nov.
17. Closterium littorale Gay var. indicum var. nov.
18. Closterium minutum Roll var. indicum var. nov.
19. Closterium rostratum Ehrenberg ex Ralfs var. sikkimicum var. nov.
20. Cosmarium favum West et GS West var. indicum var. nov.
21. Cosmarium longicylindricum Scott et Grönblad var. indicum var. nov.
22. Cosmarium ornatum Ralfs var. sikkimicum var. nov.
23. Cosmarium pyramidatum Brébisson ex Ralfs var. indicum var. nov.
24. Cosmarium undulatum Corda ex Ralfs var. indicum var. nov.
Introduction
INTRODUCTION
1
INTRODUCTION
What are desmids & Why desmids?
Desmids are the minute, microscopic, unicellular, freshwater algae belonging to the
class Chlorophyceae and are the most interesting creature of the level of primary
producers. They have been paid little attention on its role as pollution indicators
(Brook 1981). Their occurrence may vary depends upon the chemistry of water body.
Thus they can be considered useful in typification of water bodies.
Majority of desmids composed of two halves called semicells, which are joined in the
isthmus region forming sinus. Each semicells have one or more chloroplasts with one
or several prenoids. Desmids are strictly fresh water algae. Their preferred occurrence
is on stagnant water bodies of lakes. Small water bodies separated by stones adjacent
to streams (pokhri, khola), reservoir, bog pools, in association of moss vegetation
attached on rock or bark of trees etc are very good habitats for their occurrence.
Sphagnum bogs and aquatic weeds in acidic habitats are definite spots of the
External and internal
morphology of a typical
desmid (Cosmarium sp.)
INTRODUCTION
2
occurrence of desmids. It has been observed that desmids prefer little acidic
environment for their growth.
Systematic position of desmids:
Systematically desmid members are very difficult to classify. Several desmidologists
categorized this group in various ways. The classification of desmids has been
changed from time to time. Brook (1981) has given the following outline of
classification that has been followed in this study.
Class: Chlorophyceae
Order: Zygnematales
Family I. Mesotaeniaceae
Order: Desmidiales
Family I. Gonatozygaceae
II. Peniaceae
III. Closteriaceae
IV. Desmidiaceae
The Study area:
Eastern Himalaya is the region encompassing Bhutan, north-eastern India (Sikkim,
Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Darjeeling districts of West Bengal etc.), and
southern, central, and eastern Nepal. The region is geologically young and has a more
complex geographical as well as floristic composition and shows high altitudinal
variations. This research work was carried out covering most part of Sikkim and few
regions of Darjeeling district of West Bengal (Kalimpong, Lava, Lolegaon etc.).
Sikkim ("Goodly Region" in Devanagari, or Shikim, Shikimpati or Sikkim; Lepcha:
Mayel Lyang; Limbu: Yuksom, "one of the fortified place") is a landlocked Indian
state nestled in the Eastern Himalayan mountains, spread the Mount
Khanchendzonga, (28,209 ft.), the third highest Mountain in the world. The state
borders Nepal to the west, China's Tibet Autonomous Region to the north and east,
and Bhutan to the southeast, while the state of West Bengal lies to the south. Sikkim
is the second smallest state of India. It is the home of Mahayana form of Buddhism
and its colourful Gompas (Buddhist monasteries) are the major sites of attraction. The
INTRODUCTION
3
state is nonetheless geographically diverse due to its location in the Himalayas. It is a
popular tourist destination, owing to its culture, scenery and biodiversity. Kalimpong,
Lava and Lolegaon are famous hill station of West Bengal as a part of Eastern
Himalaya. These regions are also rich in its flora and fauna.
Geography:
Sikkim, which is situated in the eastern Himalayas, from longitude 88°03'40" to
88°57'19" East and from latitude 27º03'47" to 28º07'34" North. It has a total area of
7,096 km2, 114 km from north to south and 64 km from east to west. The entire state
is mountainous, with altitudes ranging from 1,000 to 28,170 ft. There are 440 villages,
eight towns and four districts in Sikkim. The genetic diversity, of both forest
vegetation and agricultural crops, is enormous. The state has about 600 plant species
and more than 4,000 species of flowering plants.
Kalimpong is situated in the lower part of Eastern Himalaya between 27.06°N
88.47°E. Total area of this region is 1,056.5 km2 with an average elevation of 4,091 ft.
Delo, the highest point in Kalimpong, has an elevation of 5,591 ft.
Lava is situated 34 km away from Kalimpong on the east way at an elevation of 7,200
ft. at 27.05°N 88.39°E. Lolegaon is a small village under Darjeeling district of West
Bengal state 12 km away from Lava.
Climate:
The climate of Eastern Himalaya varies from the Sub-tropical to the Alpine depending
upon the altitude (Sub-tropical up to 5000 ft: Temperate-5000-6500 ft; Alpine up to
13000 ft; snowline at 16000 ft and above). The temperature varies with altitude and
the slope (generally 6 degree to 10 degree). The tundra-type region in the north is clad
by snow for four months every year, and the temperature drops below 0°C (32°F)
almost every night. The peaks of north-western Sikkim are perpetually frozen. Most
of the inhabited regions of Eastern Himalaya, however, experience
a temperate climate, with the temperatures seldom exceeding 28°C (82°F) in summer
or dropping below 0°C (32°F) in winter; the mean monthly summer temperature is
15°C. The state has five seasons: winter, summer, spring, autumn, and
a monsoon season between June and September. The average annual temperature is
INTRODUCTION
4
around 18°C (64°F). The relative humidity remains above 70 per cent throughout the
year at most places. The area experiences a heavy rainfall due to its proximity with
the Bay of Bengal. The rainfall in Northern part is comparatively less than that of the
other regions. Pre-monsoon rain occurs in April-May and monsoon operates normally
from the month of May and continues up to early October. July is the wettest month
in most of the places. The mean annual rainfall is minimum at Thangu (82 mm) and
maximum at Gangtok (3494 mm). There is an area in the North-West Sikkim, which
gets very little rainfall (even less than 4.9 mm.). This area has mainly snow-covered
mountains. Sikkim is one of the few states in India to receive regular snowfall.
The snow line ranges from 20,000 ft in the north of the state to 16,000 feet in the
south. During the monsoon, heavy rains increase the risk of landslides. In the northern
region, because of the high altitude, temperatures can drop below -40°C (-40°F) in
winter. Fog affects many parts of the state during winter and the monsoons, making
transportation perilous.
Flora and fauna:
Eastern Himalaya including Sikkim and its adjoining regions are situated in an
ecological hotspot of the lower Himalayas, one of only three among the eco-regions
of India. The forested regions of the state exhibit a diverse range of fauna and flora.
Owing to its altitudinal gradation, the state has a wide variety of plants, from tropical
species to temperate, alpine and tundra ones, and is perhaps one of the few regions to
exhibit such diversity within such a small area. Nearly 81% of the area of Sikkim
comes under the administration of its forest department.
Sikkim has around 5,000 flowering plants, 515 rare orchids, 60 Primula species, 36
Rhododendron species, 11 oak varieties, 23 bamboo varieties, 16 conifer species, 362
types of ferns and ferns allies, 8 tree ferns, and over 424 medicinal plants. A variant
of the Poinsettia, locally known as "Christmas Flower", can be found in abundance in
the mountainous state. The orchid Dendrobium nobile is the official flower of Sikkim,
while the rhododendron is the state tree.
Orchids, figs, laurel, bananas, sal trees and bamboo grow in the Himalayan
subtropical broad leaf forests of the lower altitudes of this area.
In the temperate elevations above 1,500 meters (4,900 ft) there are Eastern Himalayan
broadleaf forests, where oaks, chestnuts, maples, birches, alders, and magnolias grow
INTRODUCTION
5
in large numbers, as well as Himalayan subtropical pine forests, dominated by Chirr
pine.
The alpine-type vegetation is typically found between altitudes of 3,500 to 5,000
meters (11,500 to 16,000 ft). In lower elevations are found juniper, pine, firs,
cypresses and rhododendrons from the Eastern Himalayan subalpine conifer forests.
Higher up are Eastern Himalayan alpine shrub and meadows, home to a broad variety
of rhododendrons and wild flowers.
The fauna include the snow leopard, the musk deer, the Himalayan Tahr, the red
panda, the Himalayan marmot, the sparrow, the goral, the barking deer, the common
lemur, the Himalayan Black Bear, the clouded leopard, the Marbled Cat, the leopard
cat, the wild dog, the Tibetan wolf, the hog badger, the binturong, the jungle cat and
the civet cat. Among the animals more commonly found in the alpine zone are yaks,
mainly reared for their milk, meat, and as a beast of burden.
The avifauna include of the Impeyan pheasant, the crimson horned pheasant, the snow
partridge, the snow cock, the lammergeyer and griffon vultures, as well as golden
eagles, quail, plovers, woodcock, sandpipers, pigeons, Old World flycatchers,
babblers and robins. Sikkim has more than 550 species of birds, some of which have
been declared endangered.
Eastern Himalaya also has a rich diversity of arthropods, many of which remain
unstudied. As with the rest of India, the most studied group is that of the butterflies.
Of approximately 1,438 butterfly species found in the Indian subcontinent, 695 have
been recorded from Sikkim. These include the endangered Kaiser-i-hind, Yellow
Gorgon and the Bhutan Glory.
The primary concern of this work is to investigate how many desmids are growing in
this region along with their habitat and ecological preferences, reproductive
behaviors, indicators of pollution etc.
Study area informations:
The study area of this project includes the total Sikkim state and several regions of
Eastern Himalaya under North-Eastern states of India. Sikkim state is covered by
Darjeeling district of West Bengal on the south, Nepal on the west, Tibet on the north
and China on the east. There are four districts under this state (namely East district,
West district, North district, South district). The state is crossed by several rivers. The
INTRODUCTION
6
main rivers of Sikkim are Teesta and Rangit. Besides, there are several small streams
(Khola) across the state. Several famous lakes are also there like Guru-Dongmar,
Changu, Khechoperi, Menemcho and Betang-cho. There are several small and large
waterfalls like Kanchanjungha, Rimbi falls, seven sisters’ falls, Changey waterfalls,
Backthong waterfalls, Bonjakhari waterfalls etc. These all are the places of interest for
the field collections. Because of the altitude that vary right from an altitude of 500 ft.
to summits that touch the skies, the flora and fauna naturally covers a wide spectrum –
tropical to the alpine. Sikkim’s botanical richness is awe-inspiring, boasting of more
than 4000 species of plants found in the Indian sub-continent. No wonder Sikkim has
been a dream of naturalists. Dr. J. Hooker during the middle of the last century
surveyed in detail the botanical wealth in Sikkim and his findings were embodied in
the publication “Himalayan Journal” that is still considered as an authoritative
document.
Only Kalimpong and Lava, Lolegaon, Rishop and its adjoining regions are studied
under this research programme. Kalimpong is a small town between Delo hill and
Durpin hill, Teesta river flows beside this town. This region also crossed by several
small streams and several small waterfalls and small water bodies are here and there
on its way. Delo reservoir is a polluted lake in Delo hills. Kalimpong is also rich in
its flora and fauna. Several rare species of fern, orchids, flowers and bryophytes are
present in the hilly regions. Most of its floral vegetation is still unexplored.
Lava is situated in 34 km. away from Kalimpong and is a small town under Darjeeling
district of West Bengal state. It is situated between 27.05°N 88.39°E with an
elevation of 7,200 ft. It is the entry point to the Neora Valley National Park which has
very diverse floral and faunal vegetation. Few water bodies are there in this region
which has very rich in microflora. Several waterfalls are there but Chage waterfall is
famous tourist attraction. Those areas are good habitats of water floras. Lolegaon is a
small village under Darjeeling district of West Bengal state 12 km away from Lava
and is a hill station for tourists. The adjoining regions are famous for its fern flora as
well as angiospermic flora.
Review of
Literature
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
7
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
In spite of enormous range of biodiversity very little work has been done on algal
diversity especially on desmids of Eastern Himalaya. Only a few investigations have
been carried out in this regard in last 130 years. Dickie (1882) is considered the
pioneer for the investigation of algae from this region. The algal samples were
collected by Dr. Watt during May & June 1881 from several pools and lakes in the
Upper Batong Valley of Sikkim at the altitude of 15,000-18,000 ft. from the sea level.
Studying these samples, Dickie reported 13 desmid taxa viz. Cosmarium (6 species),
Staurastrum (3 species), Hyalotheca (1 species), Tetmemorus (1 species), Penium (1
species) and Cylindrocystis (1 species). A long gap of 80 years after the work of
Dickie another phycological study was made by Rao (1963). In this study he reported
only one desmid taxa i.e. Cosmarium undulatum. Several other groups of algae were
also reported viz. diatoms (11 species), Cyanophyceae (1 species) and Chlorophyceae
(1 species other than desmid) from Lachen and Gnathong river, Sikkim during his
botanical tour in this state. Few works on the high altitude Cyanophyta from different
regions of Eastern Himalaya were carried out by Dutt et al. (1973, 1975 & 1976). On
the same time several species of Spirogyra, few members of Vaucheriaceae were
reported by Santra & Adhya (1973, 1976a & 1976b) from Eastern Himalaya. Santra
(1984) worked on the algal flora of Sikkim Himalaya. In this investigation he worked
out only the Cyanophycean flora of north-eastern part of Sikkim and reported 31 taxa
from different regions such as river bed, streams, soil surfaces, rock surfaces, tree
barks etc. Dominant genus was Lyngbya (8 species). First extensive work was done
by Prasad & Misra (1987) on desmids of Sikkim. In this study they reported 18
desmid species from different regions mainly from Gangtok and Singtam regions. The
desmid taxa reported in their study are Cylindrocystis (1 species), Penium (1 species),
Closterium (5 species), Cosmarium (10 species) and Staurastrum (1 species). Another
phycological study was made from Sikkim by Prasad & Khanna (1987). In this study
they reported Cyanophytes specially Oscillatoriaceae from different parts of Sikkim.
Total 24 members of Oscillatoriaceae were being studied of which majority are
represented by Oscillatoria (14 taxa). Prasad et al. (1988) may be considered the
pioneer workers in investigating the diatom flora of different regions of Kalimpong.
Probably the first phycological study in Shillong, Meghalaya was carried out by Rout
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
8
& Gaur (1994) on the epilithic algal vegetation in a forest stream. They investigated
only 3 species of desmids namely Closterium (1 species), Cosmarium (1 species) and
Hyalotheca (1 species) along with other 2 taxa of Chlorophyceae, 79 taxa of
Bacillariophyceae, 11 taxa of Cyanophyceae and 1 member of Rhodophyceae. Jain et
al. (1999) during their study of hydrology and nutrient dynamics of “Khecheopalri”
lake reported one member of Cosmarium (species not identified) with 2 species of
other Chlorophycean members from this lake. Gupta (2002) prepared a checklist of
algae of Shilling, Meghalaya. In this checklist he recorded 16 species of desmids viz.
Arthrodesmus (1 species), Closterium (4 species), Cosmarium (3 species), Euastrum
(3 species), Mesotaenium (1 species), Micrasterias (2 species), Netrium (1 species) &
Staurastrum (1 species) and other 35 members of Chlorophyceae along with 13
members of Cyanophyceae, 21 members of Bacillariophyceae and 20 members of
Euglenophyceae. Kumar & Rai (2005) contributed to the algal flora of Namchi
region. They investigated 7 species of desmids in this region of which Closterium (4
species) was found dominant and Netrium, Cosmarium and Staurastrum were found
represented by one species each. 6 other Chlorophycean members were also reported
in this study. Extensive work has been done by Santra & Pal (2006) during their
phycological exploration to Sikkim and West Bengal during 1990 to 1995 covering
different habitats. They reported 214 species of desmid taxa of which 65 desmid
members have been reported from the Eastern Himalayan regions. Suseela & Toppo
(2006) enumerated the algae of Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. They reported 45
species of Cyanophyceae, 8 species of diatoms, 1 Xanthophycean member and 14
Chlorophyceae of which only one desmid genera was represented Cosmarium (5 taxa)
from different places of Gangtok such as small ditches, ponds, water tanks etc. Das et
al. (2009) contributed to the freshwater algal flora of Meghalaya. In this investigation
they recorded 59 freshwater algal members from this region of which desmids
vegetation represented by 13 members viz. Closterium (3 species), Cosmarium (9
species) and Euastrum (1 species). Other algal members were Cyanophytes
represented by 3 taxa, diatoms by 28 taxa, Euglenophytes by 3 taxa and Chlorophytes
other than desmids by 12 taxa. Bhakta et al. (2010) enumerated 50 algal members
from different locations of Sikkim. In this work they investigated 17 members of
Chlorophyceae including the desmids represented by 5 members viz. Cosmarium (4
species) and one species of Cylindrocystis along with 19 species of Cyanophyceae
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
9
and 14 species of Bacillariophyceae. Deca et al. (2011) made a checklist of desmids
of Urpad Beel of Assam. In this work they included 14 genera of desmids with 91
species viz. Cosmarium (41 species), Closterium, (14 species), Euastrum (12 species),
Desmidium (3 species), Micrasterias (2 species), Staurastrum (7 species),
Actinotaenium (3 species), Xanthidium (2 species), Netrium (2 species), Hyalotheca
(1 species), Haplotaenium (1 species), Spondylosium (1 species), Bambusina (1
species) and Staurodesmus (1 species). Yasmin et al. (2011) reported 38 desmids taxa
from different regions of eastern Himalaya and reported 8 species of Closterium, 10
species of Cosmarium, 5 species each of Euastrum, Micrasterias and Staurastrum, 2
species of Pleurotaenium¸ 1 species each of Netrium, Tortitaenia and Gonatozygon
during their study period from August 2009 to 2010. Recently Das & Keshri (2012)
recorded 12 taxa from Mamencho Lake, a high altitude lake in Eastern Himalaya. In
this work 5 genera viz. Closterium (5 taxa), Cosmarium (4 taxa), Netrium (1 taxa),
Penium (1 taxa) and Hyalotheca (1 taxa) have been investigated of which 5 taxa have
been recorded as new to Indian flora.
Considering the fact that our knowledge about the algae & desmids in particular is
poor in Eastern Himalaya this study has been taken. An updated list of desmids
recorded from Eastern Himalaya is given in this table below.
Name of the species Locality Investigators
1 Actinotaenium crassiusculum (De
Bary) Teiling
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
2 Actinotaenium cruciferum (De
Bary) Teiling
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
3 Actinotaenium subglobosum
(Nordstedt) Teiling
Tsungthang Santra & Pal (2006)
4 Actinotaenium turgidum
(Brébisson ex Ralfs) Teiling
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
5 Arthrodesmus curvatus Turner Shillong, Meghalaya Gupta (2002)
6 Bambusina borreri (Ralfs) Cleve Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
10
Name of the species Locality Investigators
7 Closterium abruptum West Manmecho
(Mamencho) lake,
Sikkim
Das & Keshri
(2012)
8 Closterium abruptum West var.
brevius West et GS West
Manmecho
(Mamencho) lake,
Sikkim
Das & Keshri
(2012)
9 Closterium acerosum (Schrank)
Ehrenberg var. elongatum
Brébisson
Water spring at
Namchi
Kumar & Rai
(2005)
10 Closterium acerosum Ehrenberg
ex Ralfs
Gangtok (Sikkim) Prasad & Misra
(1987)
Shillong, Meghalaya Rout & Gaur (1994)
Gangtok, Ghum,
Mirik, Mongon,
Tonglu
Santra & Pal (2006)
11 Closterium acutum (Lyngb.) de
Brébisson ex Ralfs var. variabile
(Lemmermann) Kreiger
Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
12 Closterium acutum Brébisson in
Ralfs
Shillong, Meghalaya Gupta (2002)
13 Closterium arcuarium Hughes Manmecho
(Mamencho) lake,
Sikkim
Das & Keshri
(2012)
14 Closterium closterioides (Ralfs)
Louis et Peeters var. intermedium
(Roy et Bisset) Ruzicka
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
15 Closterium costatum Corda ex
Ralfs
Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
16 Closterium cynthia De Notoris Mongon, Mongpoo,
Tonglu
Santra & Pal (2006)
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
11
Name of the species Locality Investigators
17 Closterium dianae Ehrenberg Mirik, Nayabazar,
Pemayangtse
Santra & Pal (2006)
18 Closterium dianae Ehrenberg var.
pseudoleibleinii Förster et Eckert
Shillong, Meghalaya Gupta (2002)
19 Closterium eborecense
(Ehrenberg) Turner
Gangtok (Sikkim) Prasad & Misra
(1987)
Ghum, Sandakphu,
Rimbick
Santra & Pal (2006)
20 Closterium ehrenbergii
Meneghini ex Ralfs
Stream in Shillong Das et al. (2009)
Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
21 Closterium incurvum Brébisson Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
22 Closterium kuetzingii Brébisson
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
23 Closterium leibleinii Kutzing ex
Ralfs
Mirik, Tonglu Santra & Pal (2006)
24 Closterium leibleinii Kützing var.
recurvatum West et GS West
Kurseong, Mongpoo Santra & Pal (2006)
25 Closterium libellula Focke var.
intermedium (Roy et Bissett) GS
West
Gangtok (Sikkim) Prasad & Misra
(1987)
Mongpoo,
Sandakphu, Lachen,
Darjeeling,
Santra & Pal (2006)
26 Closterium lundellii Lagerheim
var. ellipticum West et GS West
Waterfalls at
Namchi towards
Namthang
Kumar & Rai
(2005)
27 Closterium lunula (Muller)
Nitzsch var. biconvexum
Schmidle
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
12
Name of the species Locality Investigators
28 Closterium lunula (Muller)
Nitzsch var. massartii (De
Wildeman) Krieger
Waterfalls at
Namchi towards
Namthang
Kumar & Rai
(2005)
29 Closterium lunula Ehrenberg et
Hemprich ex Ralfs
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
30 Closterium moniliferum (Bory)
Ehrenberg var. concavum Klebs
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
31 Closterium moniliferum (Bory)
Ehrenberg var.
malinvernianiforme (Grönblad)
Kossinskaja
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
32 Closterium moniliforme (Bory)
Ehrenberg
Gangtok (Sikkim) Prasad & Misra
(1987)
Shillong, Meghalaya Gupta (2002)
33 Closterium navicula (Brébisson)
Lütkemüller
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
34 Closterium parvulum Nägeli
Stream in Jayantia
hills
Das et al. (2009)
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
35 Closterium parvulum Nägeli var.
maius (Schmidle) Krieger
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
36 Closterium peracerosum Gay var.
elegans GS West
River in Shimit Das et al. (2009)
37 Closterium planum Hughes Manmecho
(Mamencho) lake,
Sikkim
Das & Keshri
(2012)
38 Closterium praelongum Brébisson Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
13
Name of the species Locality Investigators
39 Closterium pritchardianum
Archer
Gangtok (Sikkim) Prasad & Misra
(1987)
40 Closterium pseudodianae Roy Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
41 Closterium pseudolunula Borge Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
42 Closterium striolatum Ehrenberg
var. subtruncatum (West et GS
West) Krieger
Manmecho
(Mamencho) lake,
Sikkim
Das & Keshri
(2012)
43 Closterium tumidum Johnson var.
nylandicum Grönblad
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
44 Closterium tumidum West Pond near Namchi
towards Jorthang
Kumar & Rai
(2005)
45 Closterium turgidum Ehrenberg
ex Ralfs
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
46 Closterium ulna Focke ex Turner Ghum, Darjeeling Santra & Pal (2006)
47 Closterium venus Kutzing var.
debegenica Cholnoky
Kalimpong Santra & Pal (2006)
48 Closterium venus Kutzing var.
incurvum (Brébisson) Krieger
Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
49 Closterium venus Kützing ex
Ralfs
Shillong, Meghalaya Gupta (2002)
50 Cosmarium depressum (Nägeli)
Lundell
Stream at Gangtok
(Sikkim)
Suseela & Toppo
(2006)
51 Cosmarium abbreviatum
Raciborski
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
52 Cosmarium aeguale Turner var.
nepalense Hirano
Lachen, Lachung Santra & Pal (2006)
53 Cosmarium amoenum Brébisson
ex Ralfs
Shillong, Meghalaya Gupta (2002)
54 Cosmarium anceps Lundell Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
14
Name of the species Locality Investigators
55 Cosmarium aphanichondrum
Nordstedt
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
56 Cosmarium awadhense Prasad et
Mehrotra
Small ditch at
Gangtok (Sikkim)
Suseela & Toppo
(2006)
Stream in Shillong Das et al. (2009)
57 Cosmarium binum Nordstedt Kalimpong, Lava,
Tista bazaar
Santra & Pal (2006)
58 Cosmarium bioculatum Brébisson
ex Ralfs
Shillong, Meghalaya Rout & Gaur (1994)
Stream in Shillong Das et al. (2009)
59 Cosmarium bipunctatum
Børgesen
Mirik, Nayabazar
Tonglu, Rimbick
Santra & Pal (2006)
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
60 Cosmarium bipunctatum
Borgesen f. subrectangularis
West et GS West
Gangtok (Sikkim) Prasad & Misra
(1987)
61 Cosmarium botrytis (Meneghini)
Ralfs var. mediolaeve West
Gangtok (Sikkim) Prasad & Misra
(1987)
62 Cosmarium botrytis Meneghini ex
Ralfs
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
63 Cosmarium brebissonii
Meneghini ex Ralfs
Upper Batong
Valley
Dickie (1882)
64 Cosmarium ceylanicum W et GS
West
Mongpoo, Tiger hill Santra & Pal (2006)
65 Cosmarium circulare Reinsch
Shillong, Meghalaya Gupta (2002)
Tsungthang Santra & Pal (2006)
66 Cosmarium circulare Reinsch
var. messikommeri Krieger et
Gerloff
Singtam (Sikkim) Prasad & Misra
(1987)
67 Cosmarium connatum Brébisson
ex Ralfs
Kalimpong, Namchi,
Nayabazar, Phalut
Santra & Pal (2006)
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
15
Name of the species Locality Investigators
68 Cosmarium constractum Delponte
var. ellipsoidum West et GS West
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
69 Cosmarium contractum Kirchner
Shillong, Meghalaya Gupta (2002)
Stream in Jayantia
hills
Das et al. (2009)
70 Cosmarium controversum West Mongpoo Santra & Pal (2006)
71 Cosmarium crassipelle Flint et
Williamson var. noduliferum Flint
et Williamson
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
72 Cosmarium cucumis Corda ex
Ralfs var. magnum Raciborski
Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
73 Cosmarium cucurbitinum (Bisset)
Lütkemüller var.
subpolymorphum (Nordstedt)
Teiling [Now considered as
Actinotaenium cucurbitinum
(Bisset) Teiling]
Singtam (Sikkim) Prasad & Misra
(1987)
74 Cosmarium curcurbita Brébisson
ex Ralfs (now considered as
Actinotaenium
curcurbita(Brébisson) Teiling ex
Ruzicka & Pouzar
Reservoir in
Maplong
Das et al. (2009)
75 Cosmarium cyclicum Lundell Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
76 Cosmarium cyclicum Lundell var.
nordstedtianum (Reinsch) West et
GS West
Small ditch at
Gangtok (Sikkim)
Suseela & Toppo
(2006)
77 Cosmarium cyclicum Lundell ver.
arcticum (Nordstedt) Westet GS
West
Sandakphu,
Mongpoo, Lava,
Yoksum
Santra & Pal (2006)
78 Cosmarium decoratum West et
GS West
Changu lake Bhakta et al. (2010)
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
16
Name of the species Locality Investigators
79 Cosmarium depressum (Nageli)
Lundell
Nayabazar,
Gangtok,
Tsungthang
Santra & Pal (2006)
80 Cosmarium didymoprotupsum
West et GS West
Gangtok (Sikkim) Prasad & Misra
(1987)
81 Cosmarium dubium Borge Singtam (Sikkim) Prasad & Misra
(1987)
82 Cosmarium favum West et GS
West
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
83 Cosmarium formosulum Hoffman
Nayabazar, Mirik,
Tonglu, Tiger hill
Santra & Pal (2006)
Hanuman tok
(Sikkim)
Bhakta et al. (2010)
84 Cosmarium garrolense Roy et
Bisset
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
Namchi, Darjeeling
Sandakphu, Rimbick
Santra & Pal (2006)
85 Cosmarium granatum Brébisson
ex Ralfs
Kalimpong, Tonglu,
Mongpoo
Santra & Pal (2006)
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
86 Cosmarium hammeri Reinsch Tsungthang,
Nayabazar
Santra & Pal (2006)
87 Cosmarium hammeri Reinsch var.
homalodermum (Nordstedt) West
et GS West
Small ditch at
Gangtok (Sikkim)
Suseela & Toppo
(2006)
88 Cosmarium hammeri Reinsch var.
protuberans West et GS West
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
89 Cosmarium humile Nordstedt ex
De Toni
Water tank near
Nehru Botanical
Garden (Sikkim)
Suseela & Toppo
(2006)
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
17
Name of the species Locality Investigators
90 Cosmarium impressulum Elfving
Kurseong, Mongpoo Santra & Pal (2006)
Stream in Jayantia
hills
Das et al. (2009)
91 Cosmarium impressulum Elfving
var. suborthogonum (West et GS
West) Taft
Manmecho
(Mamencho) lake,
Sikkim
Das & Keshri
(2012)
92 Cosmarium isthmium West Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
93 Cosmarium kirchneri Børgesen Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
94 Cosmarium laeve Rabenhorst var.
octangulare (Wille) West et GS
West
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
95 Cosmarium lundelli Delponte
Singtam (Sikkim) Prasad & Misra
(1987)
Mongpoo, Ghum,
Lava, Phalut
Santra & Pal (2006)
96 Cosmarium majae Strøm Singtam (Sikkim) Prasad & Misra
(1987)
97 Cosmarium malinvernianum var.
badense Schmidle
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
98 Cosmarium margaritiferum
Meneghini ex Ralfs
Mongpoo, Mirik,
Lachen
Santra & Pal (2006)
99 Cosmarium minimum Ehrenberg
var. subrotundum West et GS
West
Manmecho
(Mamencho) lake,
Sikkim
Das & Keshri
(2012)
100 Cosmarium moniliforme Ralfs Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
101 Cosmarium montrealense
Croasdale
Manmecho
(Mamencho) lake,
Sikkim
Das & Keshri
(2012)
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
18
Name of the species Locality Investigators
102 Cosmarium nobile (Turner)
Krieger
Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
103 Cosmarium obsoletum (Hantzsch)
Reinsch
Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
104 Cosmarium ocellatum Eichler et
Gutwinski
Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
105 Cosmarium ocellatum Eichler et
Gutwinski var. notatum
(Nordstedt) Krieger et Gerloff
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
106 Cosmarium ocellatum Eichler et
Gutwinski var. mamillatum
Hinode
Darjeeling, Tiger
hill
Santra & Pal (2006)
107 Cosmarium pachydermum
Lundell
Upper Batong
Valley
Dickie (1882)
108 Cosmarium phaseolus Brébisson
var. phaseolus f. minus Boldt
Manmecho
(Mamencho) lake,
Sikkim
Das & Keshri
(2012)
109 Cosmarium platydesmium
(Nordstedt) Schmidle
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
110 Cosmarium portianum Archer Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
Kalimpong,
Mongpoo
Santra & Pal (2006)
111 Cosmarium praecisum Borge Pastanga (Sikkim) Bhakta et al. (2010)
112 Cosmarium pseudamoenum Wille Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
113 Cosmarium pseudobroomei Wolle Stream in Jayantia
hills
Das et al. (2009)
Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
19
Name of the species Locality Investigators
114 Cosmarium pseudoconnatum
Nordstedt
Darjeeling,
Kurseong,
Mongpoo, Phalut
Santra & Pal (2006)
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
115 Cosmarium pseudogranatum
Nordstedt var. rotundatum
(Krieger) Messikomer
Stream at Namchi Kumar & Rai
(2005)
116 Cosmarium pseudoprotuberans
Kirchner
Mirik Santra & Pal (2006)
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
117 Cosmarium pseudopyramidatum
Lundell
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
118 Cosmarium pseudoretusum
Ducellier var. africanum (Fritsch)
Krieger & Gerloff
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
119 Cosmarium punctulatum
Brébisson
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
120 Cosmarium punctulatum
Brébisson var. subpunctulatum
(Nordstedt) Børgesen
Tsungthang, Tonglu,
Ghum
Santra & Pal (2006)
121 Cosmarium pyramidatum
Brébisson ex Ralfs
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
122 Cosmarium quadratum Ralfs Namchi Santra & Pal (2006)
123 Cosmarium quadratum Ralfs var.
willei (Schmidle) Krieger et
Gerloff
Gangtok (Sikkim) Prasad & Misra
(1987)
124 Cosmarium quadrifarium Lundell
et var. hexastichum (Lundell)
Förster
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
125 Cosmarium quadrifarium Lundell
et var. oblonga Kant et Gupta
Pastanga (Sikkim)
Bhakta et al. (2010)
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
20
Name of the species Locality Investigators
126 Cosmarium quadrum Lundell
Mongpoo, Lava,
Phalut
Santra & Pal (2006)
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
127 Cosmarium quadrum Lundell var.
minus Nordstedt
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
128 Cosmarium rectangular
Brébisson var. subhexagonum
Playfair
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
129 Cosmarium regulare Schmidle Darjeeling, Lava,
Pmayangtse,
Santra & Pal (2006)
130 Cosmarium reniforme (Ralfs)
Archer
Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
131 Cosmarium retusiforme (Wille)
Gutwinski
Stream in Jayantia
hills
Das et al. (2009)
132 Cosmarium retusum (Perty)
Rabenhorst var. angustatum
(West) West et GS West
Sandakphu, Phalut Santra & Pal (2006)
133 Cosmarium scabratulum West et
GS West
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
134 Cosmarium scabrolatum Turner Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
135 Cosmarium speciosissimum
Schmidle
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
136 Cosmarium speciosum Lundell
Kalimpong, Ghum,
Mongon, Tonglu
Santra & Pal (2006)
Stream in Jayantia
hills, Jowai
Das et al. (2009)
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
21
Name of the species Locality Investigators
137 Cosmarium subauriculatum West
et GS West
Ghum Santra & Pal (2006)
138 Cosmarium subcostatum
Nordstedt
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
139 Cosmarium subcrenatum
Hantzsch
Kurseong Santra & Pal (2006)
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
140 Cosmarium subprotumidum
Nordstedt
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
141 Cosmarium subspeciosum
Nordstedt
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
142 Cosmarium subtumidum
Nordstedt f. minor Strom
Kurseong,
Kalimpong, Mirik,
Mongon
Santra & Pal (2006)
143 Cosmarium subtumidum
Nordstedt
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
144 Cosmarium subturgidum (Turner)
Schmidle
Singtam (Sikkim) Prasad & Misra
(1987)
145 Cosmarium tetragonum (Nägeli)
Archer
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
146 Cosmarium trilobulatum Reinsch Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
147 Cosmarium turgidum Brébisson
in Ralfs var. westii (Bernard)
Krieger et Gerloff
Reservoir in
Maplong
Das et al. (2009)
148 Cosmarium undulatum Corda ex
Ralfs
Gnathong river
(Sikkim)
Rao (1963)
149 Cosmarium vittatum Turner Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
150 Cosmarium wittrockii Lundell Darjeeling Santra & Pal (2006)
151 Cosmarium wuhanense Wei et Yu Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
22
Name of the species Locality Investigators
152 Cylindrocystis brebissonii (Ralfs)
de Bary
Upper Batong
Valley
Dickie (1882)
Mongpoo, Phalut,
Rimbick, Senchal
lake
Santra & Pal (2006)
153 Cylindrocystis crassa Bary Gangtok (Sikkim) Prasad & Misra
(1987)
154 Cylindrocystis ovalis Turner Hanuman tok
(Sikkim)
Bhakta et al. (2010)
155 Desmidium aptogonum Brébisson
ex Kützing
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
156 Desmidium baileyi f. tetragona
Nordstedt
Tsungthang, Lachen,
Mongon
Santra & Pal (2006)
157 Desmidium bengalicum Turner Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
158 Desmidium coarctatum Nordstedt Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
159 Euastrum gnatophorum West et
GS West
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
160 Euastrum affine Ralfs ex Ralfs Shillong, Meghalaya Gupta (2002)
161 Euastrum ansatum Ehrenberg ex
Ralfs
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
162 Euastrum ansatum Ehrenberg ex
Ralfs var. pixidatum Delponte
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
163 Euastrum bidentatum Nägeli Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
164 Euastrum binale Ehrenberg ex
Ralfs
Darjeeling, Mirik,
Mongpoo, Mongon
Santra & Pal (2006)
165 Euastrum ceylanicum (West et
GS Wset) Krieger
Kurseong, Lava,
Namchi, Mongpoo,
Tonglu
Santra & Pal (2006)
Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
23
Name of the species Locality Investigators
166 Euastrum didelta (Turpin) Ralfs
var. bengalicum Lagerheim
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
167 Euastrum didelta Turpin ex Ralfs Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
168 Euastrum dubium Nägeli
Namchi, Kurseong,
Mongpoo
Santra & Pal (2006)
Stream in Jayantia
hills, Jowai
Das et al. (2009)
169 Euastrum elegans Ralfs Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
170 Euastrum irregular Maskell Shillong, Meghalaya Gupta (2002)
171 Euastrum luetkemulleri Ducellier
var. carniolicum (Lütkemüller)
Krieger
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
172 Euastrum luetkemulleri Ducellier
var. floridanum Scott et Grönblad
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
173 Euastrum paradoxum Turner Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
174 Euastrum pseudotuddalense
Messikommer
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
175 Euastrum sphyroides Nordstedt
var. intermedium Lütkemüller
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
176 Euastrum spinulosum Delponte
Shillong, Meghalaya Gupta (2002)
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
177 Euastrum spinulosum Delponte
var. inermius Nordstedt
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
178 Euastrum sublobatum Brébisson
var. incrassatum Scott et Prescott
Darjeeling Santra & Pal (2006)
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
24
Name of the species Locality Investigators
179 Euastrum substellatum Nordstedt Kurseong Santra & Pal (2006)
180 Euastrum turneri West Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
181 Gonatozygon aculeatum Hasting Ghum, Sandakphu,
Tonglu
Santra & Pal (2006)
182 Gonatozygon kinahani (Archer)
Rabenhorst
Kalimpong, Lava Santra & Pal (2006)
Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
183 Haplotaenium minutum (Ralfs)
Bando
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
184 Hyalotheca dissiliens (Smith)
Brébisson ex Ralfs
Manmecho
(Mamencho) lake,
Sikkim
Das & Keshri
(2012)
Mongpoo,
Nayabazar, Lava
Santra & Pal (2006)
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
Shillong, Meghalaya Rout & Gaur (1994)
185 Hyalotheca dissiliens Brébisson ex
Ralfs var. tridentula Nordstedt
Upper Batong
Valley
Dickie (1882)
186 Mesotaenium degreyi Turner Shillong, Meghalaya Gupta (2002)
187 Micrasterias apiculata Meneghini
ex Ralfs
Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
188 Micrasterias foliacea Bailey ex
Ralfs
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
189 Micrasterias incisa Ralfs Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
190 Micrasterias mahabuleshwarensis
Hobson var. wallichii (Grunow)
West et GS West
Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
25
Name of the species Locality Investigators
191 Micrasterias pinnatifida Ralfs
Shillong, Meghalaya Gupta (2002)
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
192 Micrasterias zeylanica Fritsch
Shillong, Meghalaya Gupta (2002)
Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
193 Netrium digitus (Brébisson ex
Ralfs) Itzigsohn et Rothe
Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
Shillong, Meghalaya Gupta (2002)
Water spring at
Namchi
Kumar & Rai
(2005)
Namchi, Nayabazar Santra & Pal (2006)
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
194 Netrium digitus (Brébisson ex
Ralfs) Itzigsohn et Rothe var.
lamellosum (Brébisson ex
Kützing) Grönblad
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
195 Netrium interruptum (Brébisson
ex Ralfs) Lütkemüller var. minor
(Borge) Krieger
Manmecho
(Mamencho) lake,
Sikkim
Das & Keshri
(2012)
196 Onychonema leave Nordstedt var.
latum West et GS West
Kurseong, Lachung Santra & Pal (2006)
197 Onychonema leave Nordstedt var.
sumatranum Scott et Prescott
Pmayangtse,
Yoksum
Santra & Pal (2006)
198 Penium digitus Brébisson ex
Ralfs
Upper Batong
Valley
Dickie (1882)
199 Penium margaritaceum
(Ehrenberg) deBrébisson ex Ralfs
Manmecho
(Mamencho) lake,
Sikkim
Das & Keshri
(2012)
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
26
Name of the species Locality Investigators
200 Penium minutum (Ralfs) Cleve
var. crassum West
Gangtok (Sikkim) Prasad & Misra
(1987)
201 Pleurotaenium ehrenbergii
(Ralfs) Delponte
Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
Tonglu, Kalimpong,
Namchi
Santra & Pal (2006)
202 Pleurotaenium trabecula Nägeli Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
203 Pleurotaenium truncatum
(Brébisson) Nageli
Kurseong,
Tsungthang
Santra & Pal (2006)
204 Spondylosium nitens (Wallich)
Archer f. majus Turner
Sandakphu, Phalut,
Rimbick
Santra & Pal (2006)
205 Spondylosium planum (Wolle)
West et GS West
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
206 Staurastrum borgeanum Schmidle Pmayangtse,
Yoksum
Santra & Pal (2006)
207 Staurastrum crenulatum (Nägeli)
Delponte
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
208 Staurastrum curvatum West Shillong, Meghalaya Gupta (2002)
209 Staurastrum froficulatum Lundell Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
210 Staurastrum furcatum
(Ehrenberg) Brébisson f. richae
Croasdale
Kurseong, Sanchal
lake, Tiger hill
Santra & Pal (2006)
211 Staurastrum leave Ralfs Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
212 Staurastrum manfeldtii Delponte, Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
213 Staurastrum mucronatum Ralfs ex
Ralfs
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
214 Staurastrum opimum Turner Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
27
Name of the species Locality Investigators
215 Staurastrum pachyrhynchum
Nordstedt
Stream at Namchi Kumar & Rai
(2005)
Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
216 Staurastrum polymorphum
Brébisson
Ghum Santra & Pal (2006)
217 Staurastrum polytrichum (Perty)
Rabenhorst
Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
218 Staurastrum punctulatum
Brébisson in Ralfs
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
219 Staurastrum retusum Turner Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
220 Staurastrum sexangulare
(Bulneim) Lundell var.
productum Nordstedt
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
221 Staurastrum subpygmeaum West
var. subangulatum West et GS
West
Gangtok (Sikkim) Prasad & Misra
(1987)
222 Staurastrum tohopekaligense
Wolle
Mongpoo Santra & Pal (2006)
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
223 Staurodesmus convergens
(Ehrenberg ex Ralfs) Lilleroth
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
224 Staurodesmus curvatus (Turner)
Thomasson var. latus (Scott et
Prescott) Thomasson
Darjeeling Santra & Pal (2006)
225 Staurodesmus dejectus
(Brébisson) Teiling
Ghum Santra & Pal (2006)
226 Staurodesmus dickiei (Ralfs)
Teiling var. microspinus Hinode
Kurseong Santra & Pal (2006)
227 Tetmemorus granulatus Brébisson
ex Ralfs
Upper Batong
Valley
Dickie (1882)
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
28
Name of the species Locality Investigators
228 Tetmemorus laevis (Kützing)
Ralfs
Darjeeling Santra & Pal (2006)
229 Tortitaenia obscura (Ralfs) Brook Eastern Himalaya Yasmin et al.
(2011)
230 Xanthidium antilopaeum
(Brébisson) Kutzing
Namchi Santra & Pal (2006)
231 Xanthidium burkillii West et GS
West
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
232 Xanthidium urniforme (West et
GS West) Scott et Croasdale
Urpad beel area,
Goalpara, Assam
Deca et al. (2011)
Material and
Methods
MATERIAL AND METHODS
29
MATERIAL AND METHODS
Collection of samples in the field:
Algal specimens, on which the present research work is based, were collected from
almost all accessible localities of 4 districts of Sikkim and several places of eastern
Himalaya like Kalimpong, Lava, Lolegaon, Rishop etc. Every effort has been made to
reach the remote areas of Eastern Himalaya. Extensive field work has been done in
almost all the seasons at every accessible locality. In several occasion repeated visits
were made to the same locality to get the clear picture of desmids population. Total
collections were made covering almost every season during April 2009 to January
2012. Total 1000 samples were collected during the entire study period. Water bodies
like lakes, drains, ditches, pokhries, rock pools provided rich phytoplankton flora in
comparison to those found in flowing water like waterfalls, streams and rivers. All
possible collections were also made: from every possible habitat whether free
floating, attached, lodged or otherwise. Algal members were found attached on lentic
soil surfaces, submerged or semi-submerged weeds and aquatic plants, and also
recorded from sub-aerial habitats. Phytoplankton found lodged on the submerged
aquatic weeds were also considered for collection. Green film or layer attached on the
decayed plant parts such as leaves, tree trunks etc were also considered. Collections
were also made from wet soil surfaces. Mucilaginous masses and balls were collected
from wet rock surfaces beside the streams and waterfalls. A number of collections
were also made from the habitat in associations with mosses. Bog-pools were found to
be the ideal collecting areas for the desmid samples. Wet mosses were collected from
tree bark, wet soil, rocks were also considered for collection of phytoplankton sample.
This is because moisture associated with mosses growing in damp situations is good
source of algae. Freshly collected samples were preserved in FAA solution on the
collection spot instantly in polythene bags with zipper, tagged and brief ecological
notes recorded in field data book. In case of epiphytic specimens the names of the
host plants were also noted. Water samples were preserved in Lugols’ iodine solution
for better preservation and proper precipitation. Ecological parameters such as colour
and nature of the specimen, habit, habitat, association, water and air temperature and
pH (standard universal pH indicator of Merck) were recorded.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
30
Preservation of the samples:
All the collected specimens were preserved in FAA solution. The chemical
composition of FAA for 1000 ml. is given below:
40% commercial formaldehyde: 100cc.
50% Ethyl alcohol: 500 cc.
Glacial acetic acid: 50 cc.
Distilled water: 350 cc.
To every 1000 ml. of this solution 50 cc. of glycerin was added to avoid the complete
desiccation.
In case of water samples Lugols’ Iodine solution was used. The composition of
Lugols’ Iodine is given below:
In 100 ml. distilled water following chemicals were added-
Potassium Iodide: 10 gms.
Iodine: 5 gms.
Glacial acetic acid: 9.5 ml.
Lugols’ Iodine solution was added directly to the water samples in 1% ratio.
Laboratory procedure:
After bringing the collected specimen in the laboratory all the samples were stored in
60 ml. amber coloured vials with proper labeling for further workout.
Microscopic observations and Camera Lucida drawings:
Microscopic observations of the collected materials were made as soon as possible.
Proper figures of the desired algal samples were drawn under appropriate
magnifications with the help of a drawing prism considering all the features present
there in. Measurements were taken properly with an ocular scale fitted within the
eyepiece of the microscope, previously standardizing for this purpose. Several
permanent slides of each specimen were made for further references and
photomicrography.
Preparation of Permanent Slides:
Standard procedure was followed in the preparation of the mounting specimen as
permanent slides. Small amount of specimens were mounted in dry slide (Bluestar)
MATERIAL AND METHODS
31
using GFW [Glycerin: Formalin: Distilled water 1:1:1 - (Bando, 1988)] as mounting
medium and covered by cover glass (Bluestar). Iodine solutions were sometimes used
to check the mucilage accumulation around the cell wall of the desmids. The slides
were sealed with synthetic enamel paint and kept for drying whole day inside a
petridish to avoid dust. After drying a second coating was applied. Third coating is
also required for long time storage.
Photomicrography:
Photomicrographs were taken from the permanent slides using Carl Zeiss Axiostar
plus research microscope with Nikon SLR model (D60) digital camera attachment
system.
All the collections have been kept in the Algal Herbarium of the department of
Botany, The University of Burdwan (BURD).
Identifications of the workout taxa were done properly consulting the standard
literatures and several monographs.
Measurement of Angle of Divergence for the identification of Closterium:
The angle of curvature or angle of divergence (DA) of Closterium species measured
by Closteriometer as proposed by Pentecost (1984), the mathematical equation is
given below
DA = 2tan−1 𝑥
𝑥2 + 𝑦2
2𝑦 − 𝑦
x & y can be measured after camera-lucida drawing of Closterium cell under
microscope.
Another equation was given by Nishihama (1972). According to him,
Divergence angle = tan 𝛼
4 =
ℎ
𝑑 2
d & h can be measured after camera-lucida
drawing of Closterium cell under microscope.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
32
Identification of the desmids:
Desmid members that have been worked out were properly identified following the
standard monographs and literature (Ralfs 1848; Turner 1892; West & GS West 1904,
1905, 1908, 1912; West et al. 1923; Krieger 1937, 1939; Prescott et al. 1972, 1975,
1977, 1982; Croasdale et al. 1983; Ling & Tyler 1986; Lenzenweger 1996, 1997,
1999, 2003).
COLLECTION BRIEFS:
1st Trip – 14th April, 2009 to 20th April, 2009.
Collection areas: West Sikkim [Pelling and adjoining areas, Rimbi falls, Khechoperi
lake, Kangchendzonga falls, Yuksam and adjoining areas viz. Karthok lake,
Phamrong Falls]
Total Collection: 248 samples.
2nd Trip – 8th May, 2009 to 14th May, 2009
East Sikkim: Gangtok and adjoining areas (Ranipoal, Jalikhola, Rumtek, Jawaharlal
Nehru Botanical Garden, Bonjakhri falls, Backthang falls, Kaji Road, Chanmari,
Ganeshtok, Himalayan Zoological park) and Changu lake (Tsamgo lake).
Total Collection: 242 samples.
3rd Trip – 4th November, 2009 to 13th November, 2009
Collection areas: West Sikkim: Gangtok and adjoining areas [Bonjakhri falls,
Backthang falls], Changu Lake, Baba Mandir & adjoining areas, Bidang-Cho Lake,
Manmecho Lake.
West Sikkim: Pelling and adjoining areas [Rhabdense Ruin, Kanchanjungha
waterfalls, Rimbi waterfalls, Khechoperi Lake, Changey waterfalls], Dentam river,
Dentam and adjoining areas, Sordum, Singsore, Uttarey and adjoining areas, Sungure.
South Sikkim: Namchi and adjoining areas [Samdrupse]
Total Collection: 220 samples.
4th Trip – 1st May, 2010 to 6th May, 2010
Collection areas: North Sikkim [Singtam, Kabi, Naga waterfalls, Guru-Dongmar Lake
and its adjoining areas, Lachung and its adjoining areas, Katao, Yumthang,
Chungthang]
MATERIAL AND METHODS
33
Total Collection: 155 samples.
5th Trip – 21st January, 2012 to 31th January, 2012
Collection areas: Kalimpong and its adjoining areas [Delo park, Delo reservoir,
Mongpu], Lava and its adjoining areas [Rochella pass, Chage falls], Lolegaon, Rishop
and its adjoining areas.
Total collection: 139 samples.
Lakes and waterfalls visited:
Sikkim is famous for its lakes. Therefore attempts were made to investigate some of
them.
1) A small lake, besides the road towards Rhabdense Ruin, Upper Pelling. pH 5-5.5,
temp. 19°C, little polluted. Altitude: 6,800 ft.
2) Chonam Cho Lake, R. Ruin, U. Pelling. pH 5, temp. 21°C, clear water. Altitude:
6,800 ft.
3) Khechoperi Lake. pH 5-5.5, temp. 17°C, clear water, associated with Sphagnum
bogs. Altitude: 6,000 ft.
4) Small drain, adjoined to Khechoperi Lake, Pelling. pH 5, temp. 17°C, drain with
several aquatic, semi-aquatic, submerged small plants.
5) Karthak Lake, Yoksum, pH 5-5.5, temp. 19°C, small lake, unpolluted, clear water,
no plant adjoining the lake, Altitude: 5,840 ft.
6) Changu Lake, E. Sikkim. pH 6, temp. 6°C, unpolluted, clear water, several small
pokhri at the side of the river in few places, little slimy mass on the rocks.
Altitude: 12,310 ft.
7) Bidang-Cho Lake, Kupup. E. Sikkim, pH 6, temp. 10°C, greenish golden-algal
blooms appear. Altitude: 13,900 ft.
8) Manmecho Lake, E. Sikkim. pH 6, temp. 10°C, light green and dark green
filamentous scums appear. Altitude 14,000 feet.
9) Guru-Dongmar Lake, North Sikkim, pH 5.5, temp. 9°C, clear water, unpolluted.
Altitude: 17,800 ft.
10) Delo Reservoir, Delo Park, Kalimpong, pH 6-6.5, temp. 24°C polluted water, dark
greenish and grayish masses in the water of this reservoir. Altitude:
5,590 ft.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
34
11) Mach Pokhri, Mansong, pH 6.5, temp. 24°C More or less clear water, Light and
dark greenish filamentous and mucilaginous masses on the surface of the rock.
Eastern Himalaya mainly Sikkim is also distinguished for its waterfalls. Numerous
falls are spread in the state. In this project it is tried to illustrate most of them.
Rimbi falls, West Sikkim, pH 6, Temperature of the water 16°C.
Kanchanjongha falls, West Sikkim, pH 6. Temperature of the water 15°C.
Pharmong falls, West Sikkim, pH 5.5. Temperature of the water 15°C.
Bonjakhri falls, East Sikkim, pH 6.5. Temperature of the water 17°C.
Backthang falls, East Sikkim, pH 6. Temperature of the water 15°C.
Changey falls, West Sikkim, pH 6.5. Temperature of the water 14°C.
Naga falls, North Sikkim, pH 6. Temperature of the water 13°C.
Seven sisters fall, North Sikkim, pH 5.5. Temperature of the water 13°C.
Chage falls, Lava, West Bengal, pH. 6, Temperature of the water 18°C.
and many other small waterfalls
MATERIAL AND METHODS
35
Map of Sikkim and other regions of Eastern Himalaya depicting collection sites (in
red arrows) through the entire collection periods.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
36
Few pictures of collection spots:
MATERIAL AND METHODS
37
Ecology
ECOLOGY
38
ECOLOGY
Desmids are exclusively freshwater algae in their distribution to natural waters. They
prefer mainly lentic habitats. They are scanty in lotic waters and Iceland habitats. The
highland bog pools however support desmids unique to such habitats. It is observed
that maximum species diversity occurs in acidic waters (pH 5-6.5). Ecological study
was targeted to the area to know the following:
(i) Phytosociological associations:
(ii) Physicochemical environments:
(i) Phytosociological associations: Desmids grow either in free-floating condition or
in association in gelatinous masses. Their associations with various angiosperms have
been highlighted by different desmidologists (Brook 1981). Detailed study was
therefore conducted in this line. It was observed that desmids grow in gelatinous
masses profusely with submerged aquatic angiosperms, mosses and few species of
grasses. It has also been noted that these angiosperms are almost always associated
with profuse desmid growth and good species diversity. The depth of water between
1/4-3.5 feet support abundant desmid growth around these aquatics. Some growth is
always noticed intimately associated with these macrophytes. It may therefore be
hypothesized that these plants secrete or release some growth supporting substances
suitable for desmid growth.
Plants surrounding desmid habitats are also unique. Several species of mosses
(Sphagnum, Taxithelium etc.) are good inhabitant of desmid flora. planktonic mosses
lodged on the clump of those mosses These plants grow in the wet areas of upper and
lower fringes of the slopes of water bodies as well as wet shady places on the rock or
on soil and on the bark of trees. The species of other group of algae such as
Mougeotia, Oedogonium, Spirogyra, Zygnema and a good number of
Chlorococcalean members like Pediastrum, Coelestrum, Scenedesmus and
Ankistrodesmus etc. have been frequently associated with desmids as mat or bloom on
the surface of the water.
It has been noted that the barren water bodies generally have very poor representation
of desmid flora. Surrounding vegetation and aquatic angiosperms have been found to
ECOLOGY
39
have very strong influence on their distribution and diversity. As mentioned earlier
certain plants are always associated with the species diversity and richness of
desmids. This fact supports our observations. Temperature has a very good impact on
the proliferation of desmid biodiversity. The area under investigation holds a
temperature range of 10°C-25°C. Major and luxuriant growth supported in post-
monsoon and winter months (at a temperature range of 10°C-15°C).
It is interesting to note that some good samples carried more than 200 algal taxa,
mainly phytoplankton. Next to desmids, rest of the algal taxa belonged to
Chlorococcales, various species of unicellular and filamentous Cyanophyceae, several
good specimens of diatoms, a few filamentous and unicellular green algae and a few
Charophytes and Euglenophytes. Many more insignificantly and rarely occurring
algal forms belonged to unicellular members of Xanthophyceae, Chrysophyceae, and
Dinophyceae.
ii) Physico-chemical environments:
Sikkim is one of the great biodiversity hotspot in India. Several lakes are also
considered as the desmid hotspot of Sikkim. These are Bitang-cho lake, Mamencho
lake in the East Sikkim, Khechiperi lake, Kothag in Yoksum in the West Sikkim. Due
to time limits the investigations were however restricted to investigate only few
environmental parameters. viz.
1) Atmospheric temperature (°C)
2) Water temperature (°C)
3) pH
Systematic Part
SYSTEMATIC PART
40
SYSTEMATIC PART
Unicellular members of the order Zygnematales (Conjugales) are collectively known
as desmids. Desmids are unusual, interesting, microscopic group of algae which are
exclusively freshwater, no marine members have been reported yet. They are
unicellular, sometimes pseudo-filamentous (cells attached temporarily end to end
forming short filaments), majority are two parted, each of them termed as ‘semicells’
joined each other by ‘isthmus’. Each semicell contains one or more axial or parietal
chloroplast with different shape with single or more pyrenoids. Cell wall having
diverse ornamentation patterns which may be smooth, porous, sinulate, verrucate,
undulate, crenulate, striated, granulate etc. Reproduction occurs by conjugation with
amoeboid non-flagellate gametes forming thick-walled variously ornamented
zygospores.
Systematic arrangement of genera according to Brook (1981)
* Marked genera accommodated.
The saccoderm desmids
Zygnematales
Mesotaeniaceae
1. Ancylonema
2. Cylindrocystis
3. Mesotaenium
4. Netrium
5. Roya
6. Spirotaenia
7. Tortitaenia *
The placoderm desmids
Desmidiales
Gonatozygaceae
1. Gonatozygon
2. Genicularia
SYSTEMATIC PART
41
Peniaceae
3. Penium
Closteriaceae
4. Closterium
Desmidiaceae
5. Actinotaenium
6. Arthrodesmus
7. Cosmarium
8. Desmidium
9. Euastrum
10. Haplotaenium *
11. Hyalotheca
12. Micrasterias
13. Onychonema
14. Pleurotaenium
15. Spondylosium
16. Staurastrum
17. Teilingia
18. Triplastrum
19. Triploceras
20. Xanthidium
Zygnematales: Saccoderm desmids
(Mesotaeniaceae)
Cells having cell wall consisting of single piece, shaped simple, cylindrical, spindle
shaped or fusiform, median constriction rarely present, pores or any ornamentation
absent.
Key to the genera described:
1. Cells having single chloroplast
2. Cells temporarily attached end to end forming short filament..….Ancylonema (I)
SYSTEMATIC PART
42
2. Cells occurs singly not forming filament
3. Cells slightly curved, chloroplast with median notch…….......………Roya (V)
3. Cells straight, chloroplast without median notch…...…...…Mesotaenium (III)
1. Cells having more than one chloroplast
4. Cells longer, more than 5 times longer than broad
5. Chloroplast parietal, spiral or ribbon like……………..….…..Spirotaenia (VI)
5. Chloroplast axial, shaped otherwise
6. Cells cylindrical with tapering apex, chloroplast with radiating ridges
.........Netrium (IV)
6. Cells spindle shaped, chloroplast spiral, screw-shaped.......Tortitaenia (VII)
4. Cells stouter, less than 5 times longer than broad………….….Cylindrocystis (II)
I. Ancylonema Berggren
Cells small, cylindrical or sub-cylindrical, united loosely into short filaments made of
up to 4-15 cells. Lateral walls parallel, median incision absent, may be slightly retuse;
apex rounded or truncate with rounded angles. Chloroplast axial or parietal bands,
narrow with 1-2 pyrenoids. Cell wall smooth. Cell sap violet in colour.
1. Ancylonema nordenskioeldii Berggren
(Krieger 1937, p.203, pl. 5, f. 1, 2; Prescott et al. 1972, p. 13, pl. 3, f. 1-7)
[Pl. I, f. 1, 2]
Cells cylindric, 2-3 times longer than broad; the poles broadly rounded; cells
loosely adjoined end to end to form short filament; chloroplast axial, shaped a
narrow band with 1-2 pyrenoids.
Length: 15-17 µm, Breadth: 9-10 µm.
Collection No. DD-389, 16.09.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp 10ºC).
SYSTEMATIC PART
43
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
II. Cylindrocystis Meneghini ex de Bary
Cells solitary, sometimes in a common gelatinous matrix, cylindrical, sub-cylindrical,
oblong or fusiform, straight or slightly curved, small to medium sized; median
constriction absent, lateral walls parallel, apex broadly rounded: chloroplast single,
axial, sometimes with angular projections with a large central pyrenoid, it may be
rounded or rod-shaped elongate; nucleus lie in the middle of the cell; cell wall bi-
layered, smooth.
Key to the taxa investigated:
1. Cells broadly oval or sub-spherical, stout, up to 2 times longer than broad
……………………...……(4) Cy. crassa
1. Cells cylindrical, elongate, above 2 times longer than broad
2. Cells small, up to 30 µm in length…….………..…(3) Cy. brebissonii var. minor
2. Cells relatively larger, above 30 µm in length
3. Chloroplast show several longitudinal bands, filling almost entire part of the
cell.......................................................................(2) Cy. brebissonii var. jenneri
3. Chloroplast not showing any such band, only having radiating prolongations,
not filling the entire cell………….…….…..(1) Cy. brebissonii var. brebissonii
1. Cylindrocystis brebisonii Meneghini var. brebisonii
(West & GS West 1904, p. 58, pl. 4, f. 23-32, pl. 5, f. 10; Krieger 1937, p. 207, pl.
6, f. 4-7; Prescott et al. 1972, p. 20, pl. 2, f. 1-5; Lenzenweger 2003, p. 32, pl. 9, f.
3-6)
[Pl. I, f. 4, 5]
Cells medium sized, 2-3 times longer than broad, cylindrical; apex broadly
rounded; lateral walls straight, parallel; chloroplast axial, pyrenoid central and
large, one in each semicells; cell wall smooth.
SYSTEMATIC PART
44
Length: 46-48 µm, Breadth: 17-19 µm.
Collection No. DD-112, 18.04.2009, Khechiperi Lake, Sikkim. In association
with slimy mass growing benthic near the margins of the drain beside the Lake
(pH 6, temp. 17°C).
Indian distribution: Upper Batong Valley, Sikkim (Dickie 1882); East India
(Turner 1892); Simla (Kamat 1968); Kashmir (Suxena & Venkateswarlu 1968b);
Kodaikanal, Tamilnadu (Bharati & Pai 1972); Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar &
Agarkar 1977); Kerala (Shaji et al. 1988); Karnataka (Hegde & Isaacs 1986);
Kalimpong (Santra & Pal 2006).
2. Cylindrocystis brebisonii Meneghini var. jenneri (Ralfs) Reinsch
(Krieger 1937, p. 210, pl. 6, f. 12, 13; Prescott et al. 1972, p. 21, pl. 2, f. 6-8;
Lenzenweger 2003, p. 33, pl. 9, f. 11,12)
[Pl. I, f. 8, 9]
Cells cylindrical, 2.5-3 times longer than broad, apices broadly rounded;
chloroplast axial showing several vertical bands; cell wall smooth.
Length: 71-72 µm. Breadth: 25-26 µm.
The chloroplast shows vertical bands. These forms appear intergrading between
Cylindrocystis & Penium.
Collection No. DD-405, 06.11.2009, Changu Lake, Sikkim. In association with
dark green filamentous growing on the surface of water (pH 6, temp. 9ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
3. Cylindrocystis brebisonii Meneghini var. minor West et GS West
(West & GS West 1904, p. 59, pl. 5, f. 11; Krieger 1937, p. 209, pl. 6, f. 8,9;
Prescott et al. 1972, p. 21, pl. 2, f. 9-12; Lenzenweger 2003, p. 33, pl. 9, f. 7-9)
[Pl. I, f. 6, 7]
Cells small, 2-3 times longer than broad, cylindrical, narrow; apices broadly
rounded; chloroplast axial, pyrenoid single in each semicell; cell wall smooth.
Length: 28-42 µm, Breadth: 12-16 µm.
No. DD-414, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association with green
filamentous mass attached to the surface of the submerged aquatic plants (pH 6,
temp. 10ºC).
SYSTEMATIC PART
45
Indian distribution: Kerala (Shaji et al. 1988).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
4. Cylindrocystis crassa de Bary var. crassa
(West & GS West 1904, p. 59, pl. 4, f, 33-38; Krieger 1937, p. 211, pl. 6, f. 16,
17; Prescott et al. 1972, p. 22, pl. 2, f. 24-26; Lenzenweger 2003, p. 34, pl. 9, f.
10, 13, 14)
[Pl. I, f. 3]
Cells elliptic, about 2 times longer than broad, the poles broadly rounded;
chloroplast having numerous radiating plates and with a central pyrenoid.
Length: 82-86 µm. Breadth: 40-42 µm.
No. DD-287, 12.05.2009. Backthong falls, Sikkim. With the phytoplankton
samples collected from the falls (pH 6.5, temp. 15ºC); DD-757, Lava, West
Bengal. In association with wet mosses growing on the surface of the soil (pH 6,
temp. 16ºC).
Indian distribution: East India (Turner 1892); Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu (Bharati
& Pai 1972) Savandurga, Karnataka (Gurudeva et al. 1983); Gangtok, Sikkim
(Prasad & Misra 1987); Rohilkhand, Uttar Pradesh (Habib 1993); Pilibhit, Uttar
Pradesh (Habib 1997).
III. Mesotaenium Nageli
Cells solitary, sometimes several aggregated within common gelatinous matrix or
paired immediately after cell division. Cells cylindrical, sub-cylindrical or elliptical,
elliptic-oval, straight or slightly curved, rarely asymmetrical, slightly attenuated to the
apex, apex rounded or sub-truncate. Chloroplast single, rarely 2, axial rarely parietal,
sometimes curved, flattened and plate-like with 1-2 pyrenoids.
Key to the taxa investigated:
1. Cells cylindrical, elongate, sub-cylindrical
2. Cells symmetrical, straight
SYSTEMATIC PART
46
3. Relatively larger in dimension 13-15 µm broad, 33-36 µm long, lateral wall
convex in the midregion, apex acutely rounded
..(4) M. macrococcum var. macrococcum
3. Cells smaller 7-16 µm. broad, 16-30 µm. long, lateral walls straight, apex
broadly rounded……………………….......…(5) M. macrococcum var. minus
2. Cells asymmetrical, more diameter at one end, slightly curved
…………………(3) M. degryi var. breve
1. Cells broadly oval or elliptic, relatively short
4. Cell sap violet in colour, chloroplast covers the entire area of the cell
...(2) M. chlamydosporum var. violascens
4. Cell sap not violet in colour, chloroplast not covering the entire space of the cell
...(1) M. chlamydosporum var. chlamydosporum
1. Mesotaenium chlamydosporum de Bary var. chlamydosporum
(West & GS West 1904, p. 52, pl. 4, f. 4-14; Krieger 1937, p. 200, pl. 4, f. 1-9;
Prescott et al. 1972, p. 8, pl. 1, f. 32, 33; Lenzenweger 2003, p. 30, pl. 8, f. 1-4)
[Pl. I, f. 18, 19]
Cells oblong cylindrical, the poles broadly rounded, with small apical nodules,
1.4-1.6 times longer than broad; chloroplast parietal plate; cell wall smooth.
Length: 24-25 µm, Breadth: 16-17 µm.
Collection No. DD-379, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with deep green filamentous mass floating freely on the surface of water forming
bloom (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: East India (Turner 1892); West Bengal (Mallick 2010).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
2. Mesotaenium chlamydosporum de Bary var. violascens (de Bary) Krieger
(Krieger 1937, p. 201, pl. 4, f. 10-11; Prescott et al. 1972, p. 9, pl. 1, f. 37-38)
[Pl. I, f. 13, 14, 16, 17]
Cells elliptic, short, 1.2-1.5 times longer than broad, chloroplast a parietal plate;
cell wall smooth; cell sap violet in colour.
SYSTEMATIC PART
47
Length: 22-31 µm, Breadth: 15-22 µm.
Collection No. DD-379, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake. Sikkim. In association
with Deep green filamentous mass floating freely on the surface of water forming
bloom (pH 6, temp. 10ºC); DD-156, 19.04.2009, Kothak Lake, Sikkim. With the
phytoplankton samples collected from the Lake (pH 4.5, temp. 19ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
3. Mesotaenium degreyii Turner var. breve West
(West & GS West 1904, p. 50, pl. 3, f. 20; Krieger 1937, p. 192, pl. 3, f. 2;
Prescott et al. 1972, p. 9, pl. 1, f. 4, 5)
[Pl. I, f. 12]
Cells cylindrical-oval in shape, stout, short, 2-2.5 times longer than broad; apices
broadly rounded; chloroplast parietal; cell wall smooth.
Length: 46-48 µm, Breadth: 20-21 µm.
Collection No. DD-160, 19.04.2009, Kothak Lake, Sikkim. Growing on the mud
on the bank of the Lake (pH 4.5, temp. 19ºC).
Indian distribution: West Bengal (Mallick 2010).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
4. Mesotaenium macrococcum (Kützing) Roy et Bissett var. macrococcum
(West & GS West 1904, p. 51, pl. 3, f. 34-36; Krieger 1937, p. 198, pl. 4, f. 1-3;
Prescott et al. 1972, p. 11, pl. 1, f. 27-30; Lenzenweger 2003, p. 31, pl. 8, f. 11-14)
[Pl. I, f. 10, 11]
Cells medium sized, cylindrical, 2.4-2.6 times longer than broad; lateral walls
parallel and straight; poles truncately rounded; cell wall finely punctate.
Length: 33-36 µm, Breadth: 13-15 µm.
Collection No. DD-24, 16.04.2009, Pelling, Sikkim. In association with dark
green to brownish green filament forming mat (pH 5.5, temp. 21ºC); DD-412,
06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association with dark greenish filament
floating freely on the surface of water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Marathwada, Maharashtra (Asthekar & Kamat 1979);
Kashmir (Compère 1983); West Bengal (Mallick 2010).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
SYSTEMATIC PART
48
5. Mesotaenium macrococcum (Kützing) Roy et Bissett var. minus (de Bary)
Compére
(Prescott et al. 1972, p. 11, pl. 1, f. 31; Lenzenweger 2003, pl. 8, f. 16, 17)
[Pl. I, f. 15, 20]
Cells cylindrical, short, 1.5-2.5 times longer than broad; lateral walls parallel,
slightly attenuated at the apices; apex broadly rounded; chloroplast axial, nearly
filling the cells; cell wall punctate.
Length: 16-30 µm, Breadth: 7-16 µm.
Collection No. DD-590, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with light green
filaments on the surface of a small water body (pH 6.5, temp. 15ºC); DD-714,
01.05.2010, Delo reservoir, Kalimpong. With phytoplankton samples collected
from the reservoir.
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
IV. Netrium (Nageli) Itzigsohn et Rothe emend Lutkemuller
Cells solitary, elongate-cylindrical, elliptic, elliptic-fusiform, straight, rarely slightly
curved in with broadly rounded or truncate ends. Median constriction lacking. Lateral
walls generally convex, sometimes straight. Chloroplast axial with 6-12 longitudinal
ridges having smoothed, notched or serrated outer free margins; pyrenoids single to
several, rounded or elongate arranged in longitudinal series or scattered. Cell wall bi-
layered and smooth.
Key to the taxa investigated:
1. Semicells cylindrical
2. Cells elongate-cylindrical, apex broadly rounded
3. Cells rather shorter in size, cell wall smooth...…(5) N. interruptum var. minor
3. Cells relatively larger, cell wall closely punctate
………….(6) N. interruptum var. sectum
SYSTEMATIC PART
49
2. Cells short, oblong-cylindrical, apex truncate-rounded
4. Cells with lateral margins straight throughout, not attenuated at the apex, apex
flat, angles rounded......................................(10) N. oblongum var. cylindricum
4. Cells with lateral margins slightly convex, attenuated to the poles, apex
truncately rounded
5. Cells oblong-cylindrical, apex truncately rounded
............(9) N. oblongum var. acuminatum
5. Cells elongate-fusiform, apex broadly rounded
................(8) N. oblongum var. oblongum
1. Cells elliptic-fusiform
6. Cells minute, about 60 µm long, elliptic, apex narrow, bluntly rounded
……………………………..(7) N. minus
6. Cells relatively larger, more than 100 µm. in length, fusiform, spindle-shaped
7. Lateral walls convex strongly
8. Cells broadly fusiform, about 2 times longer than broad
……………..…(1) N. digitus var. digitus
8. Cells relatively elongate-fusifom, more than 2 times longer than broad
.........................(2) N. digitus var. curtum
7. Lateral walls not strongly convex
9. Cells slightly longer, 3-4 times longer than broad
………………(3) N. digitus var. naegelii
9. Cells relatively short, 2-3 times longer than broad
………………..(2) N. digitus var. rectum
1. Netrium digitus (Ehrenberg) Itzigson et Rothe var. digitus
SYSTEMATIC PART
50
(West & GS West 1904, p. 64, pl. 6, f. 14-16; Krieger 1937, p. 214, pl. 7, f. 1, pl.
8, f. 1; Prescott et al. 1972, p. 24, pl. 4, f. 14-16, 21; Lenzenweger 2003, p. 35, pl,
11, f. 1-4)
[Pl. II, f. 35]
Cells broadly fusiform with much convex lateral margins, gradually attenuated
from the middle to broad rounded-truncated poles; about 2 times longer than
broad; chloroplast one in each semicells with several pyrenoids; cell wall smooth.
Length: 210-213 µm, Breadth: 106-109 µm, Apex: 32-36 µm.
In present specimen the chloroplast is definitely not stellate, margin serrate and
pyrenoids in row, although chloroplast is bit distorted, many features makes it
close to N. digitus.
Collection No. DD-420, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with light green filaments on the surface ofthe water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC). DD-728,
02.05.2010, Mach pokhri, West Bengal. With phytoplankton sample collected
from the waterbody (pH 6.5, temp. 22ºC).
Indian distribution: Kodaikanal, Tamilnadu (Iyengar & Vimla Bai 1941; Singh
& Balasingh 2011); Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar 1969); Kodaikanal,
(Bharati & Pai 1972); Karnataka and Goa (Bharti & Hegde 1982); Savandurga,
Karnataka (Gurudeva 1983); Rohilkhand, Uttar Pradesh (Habib 1993); Pilibhit,
Uttar Pradesh (Habib 1997); Shillong, Meghalaya (Gupta 2002); Sikkim (Kumar
& Rai 2005; Santra & Pal 2006); West Bengal (Mallik 2009); Kerala (John &
Francis 2010); Eastern Himalaya (Yasmin et al. 2011); Goalpara, Assam (Deca et
al. 2011).
This is a fairly common taxon of Netrium occurring in India.
2. Netrium digitus (Ehrenberg) Itzigson et Rothe var. curtum (Borge) Krieger
(Prescott et al. 1972, p. 25, pl. 4, f. 25; Lenzenweger 2003, p. 35, pl. 11, f. 7)
[Pl. I, f. 33]
Cells broadly fusiform with strongly convex sides, gradually becoming conical
toward the truncated poles; cells 2-2.5 times longer than broad; chloroplast single
in each semicells with several pyrenoids; cell wall smooth.
Length: 103-106 µm, Breadth: 42-44 µm, Apex: 12-15 µm.
SYSTEMATIC PART
51
Collection No. DD-423, Backthong falls, Sikkim. In association with dark scum
with mosses on the surface of the wet rock (pH 6, temp. 14ºC).
Indian distribution: Kumta, N. Kanara (Bharati 1965b).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
3. Netrium digitus (Ehrenberg) Itzigson et Rothe var. naegelii (Brébisson) Krieger
(West & GS West 1904, p. 66, pl. 7, f. 4, 5 as N. naegelii (Brébisson) West et GS
West; Prescott et al. 1972, p. 26, pl. 5, f. 3, 4; Lenzenweger 2003, p. 36, pl. 11, f.
5)
[Pl. II, f. 34]
Cells oblong elongate with convex margins attenuated at the end forming
truncately rounded poles; cells 3.5-4 times longer than broad; chloroplast single in
each semicells with 6 longitudinal radiating plates having several pyrenoids; cell
wall smooth.
Length: 176-182 µm, Breadth: 45-48 µm, Apex: 17-22 µm.
Collection No. DD-756, 10.11.2011, Lava West Bengal. In association with green
filaments floats freely on the surface of a small water body (pH 6, temp. 17ºC).
Indian distribution: Kerala (Shaji et al. 1988).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
4. Netrium digitus (Ehrenberg) Itzigson et Rothe var. rectum (Turner) Krieger
(Krieger 1937, p. 216, pl. 7, f. 2; Prescott et al. 1972, p. 26, pl. 4, f. 22)
[Pl. II, f. 36]
Cells oblong elliptic, broad with convex margins, the end somewhat produced and
gradually tapering forming truncated poles; chloroplast single in each semicells
having radiating ridges with elongate pyrenoids; cell wall smooth.
Length: 164-167 µm, Breadth: 54-57 µm, Apex: 14-15 µm.
Collection No. DD-500, 09.11.2009, Change falls, Sikkim. As brownish scum on
the surface of the water under the flowing water (pH 6, temp. 14ºC).
Indian distribution: West Bengal (Mallik 2009).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
5. Netrium interruptum (Brébisson) Lütkemüller var. minor (Borge) Krieger
SYSTEMATIC PART
52
(Prescott et al. 1972, p. 28, pl. 5, f. 19; Krieger 1937, p. 223, pl. 8, f. 10;
Lenzenweger 2003, pl. 11, f. 16)
[Pl. II, f. 38]
Cells small, cylindrical, 4-6 times longer than broad; apices obtusely rounded;
wall smooth; chloroplast median and cylindrical, 2 in each semicell with a central
pyrenoid, each chloroplast having about 8 longitudinal ridges, the margins of
which are entire.
Length: 68-74 µm, Breadth: 12-15 µm, Apex: 7-9 µm.
Collection No. DD-415, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with greenish-brown scum attached to the surface of the wet rock (pH 6, temp.
10ºC).
Indian distribution: Mamencho Lake, Sikkim (Das & Keshri 2012).
6. Netrium interruptum (Brébisson) Lütkemüller var. sectum West et GS West
(West & GS West 1904, p. 69, pl. 7, f. 3; Krieger 1937, p. 223, pl. 8, f. 9; Prescott
et al. 1972, p. 28, pl. 5, f. 20)
[Pl. II, f. 39, 40]
Cells cylindrical, margins parallel forming rounded poles at the apices; 5-5.5
times longer than broad; chloroplast 2 in each semicells, each with about 8-10
longitudinal ridges, the margins of which are entire; cell wall finely punctate.
Length: 95-100 µm, Breadth: 18-20 µm, Apex: 16-17 µm.
Collection No. DD-190, 19.04.2009, Yoksum, Sikkim. In association with
brownish filamentous scum in stagnant water under a small water falls (pH 4.5,
temp. 18ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
7. Netrium minus Prescott
(Prescott et al. 1972, p. 28, pl. 5, f. 9)
[Pl. II, f. 46]
Cells small, lanceolate, lateral walls convex, gradually attenuated at the apices
forming bluntly truncated poles; cells 4.5-5 times longer than broad; chloroplast
axial, single in each semicells, with about 4 longitudinal ridges and a central
pyrenoid; cell wall smooth.
SYSTEMATIC PART
53
Length: 60-62 µm, Breadth: 12-13 µm, Apex: 2-3 µm.
Present specimen is close to N. minus Prescott however, it differs from it in
1. Being longer
2. Less broader.
Collection No. DD-391, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with Brownish scum attached to the surface of the submerged part of the semi-
aquatic plants (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
8. Netrium oblongum (de Bary) Lütkemüller var. oblongum
(West & GS West 1904, p. 66, pl. 8, f. 1-3; Krieger 1937, p. 220, pl. 8, f. 6;
Prescott et al. 1972, p. 29, pl. 5, f. 14 Lenzenweger 2003, p. 37, pl. 11, f. 11-13)
[Pl. II, f. 37]
Cells oblong cylindrical, margins convex, gradually narrowed toward the rounded
poles; cells 2.5-3 times longer than broad; chloroplast single in each semicells
with having 3 pyrenoids; cell wall smooth.
Length: 132-134 µm, Breadth: 45-48 µm, Apex: µm.
Collection No. DD-124, 18.04.2009, Khechiperi Lake, Sikkim. As scum in
association with the members of Iridaceae (pH 5, temp. 19ºC); DD-778, Lolegaon,
West Bengal. In association with blueish green scum on the surface of the grasses.
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
9. Netrium oblongum (de Bary) Lütkemüller var. acuminatum Irénée-Marie
(Prescott et al. 1972, p. 29, pl. 5, f. 13)
[pl. II, f. 43-45]
Cells medium sized, elongate fusiform, 2.5-4 times longer than broad; lateral
margins convex, gradually narrowed toward the broadly rounded poles, but with a
slight retuse near the apices, the poles broadly rounded; chloroplast single in each
semicells with several pyrenoids; cell wall smooth.
Length: 77-168 µm, Breadth: 20-57 µm, Apex: 10-16 µm.
Collection No. DD-417, 06.11.2009 Mamencho, Lake. Sikkim In association with
g reenish-brown scum on the surface of the wet rock (pH 6, temp. 10ºC); DD-422,
SYSTEMATIC PART
54
06.11.2009 Backthong falls, Sikkim. In association with brownish scum with
mosses on the wet surface of rock (pH 6, temp. 14ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
10. Netrium oblongum (de Bary) Lütkemüller var. cylindricum West et GS West
(West & GS West 1904, p. 67, pl. 5, f. 7; Prescott et al. 1972, p. 30, pl. 5, f. 15)
[Pl. II, f. 41, 42]
Cells decidedly cylindrical with broadly rounded poles, lateral margins parallel, 3-
3.5 times longer than broad; chloroplast 2 in each semicells having 6 longitudinal
ridges with serrate margins, pyrenoid single in each chloroplast; cell wall smooth.
Length: 64-69 µm, Breadth: 20-23 µm.
Collection No. DD-405, 06.11.2009 Changu Lake, Sikkim. In association with
dark green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 9ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
V. Roya West et GS West
Cells solitary, elongate, cylindrical or sub-cylindrical, slightly curved or bow-shaped
with broadly rounded or truncate ends; chloroplast axial, ribbon-shaped band or plate
with a row of up to 10 pyrenoids or more. A median notch is present in the
chloroplast. Cell wall smooth, colourless, without pores, bi-layered, a polar vacuole is
present in some species.
Key to the taxa investigated:
1. Cells slightly attenuated toward the apices, poles broadly rounded
........................(1) R. obtusa var. obtusa
1. Cells with lateral walls parallel, poles angularly truncated
……………...(2) R. obtusa var. montana
1. Roya obtusa (Brébisson) West et GS West var. obtusa
(West & GS West 1904, p. 106, pl. 10, f. 27; Krieger 1937, p. 204, pl. 5, f. 4;
Prescott et al. 1972, p. 31, pl.6, f. 1-8; Lenzenweger 2003, p. 28, pl. 8, f. 18, 19)
SYSTEMATIC PART
55
[Pl. I, f. 25, 26]
Cells cylindrical, slightly curved, 4-5 times longer than broad, somewhat
attenuated toward the apices; apex broadly and obtusely rounded; chloroplast
extended the entire portion of the cell with a slight notch at the midregion,
pyrenoids several; cell wall finely punctate
Length: 54-57 µm, Breadth: 12-13 µm.
Collection No. DD-380, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filaments growing attached on pebbles & submerged weeds (pH 6,
temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of this taxon from India.
2. Roya obtusa (Brébisson) West et GS West var. montana West et GS West
(West & GS West 1904, p. 108, pl. 10, f. 28, 29; Krieger 1937, p. 204, pl. 5, f. 5,
6; Prescott et al. 1972, p. 32, pl.6, f. 9-12; Lenzenweger 2003, p. 29, pl. 8, f. 20,
21)
[Pl. I, f. 27, 28]
Cells cylindrical, elongate, straight, 5-6 times longer than broad; lateral walls
parallel, apex angularly truncated; chloroplast axial, notch at the midregion is
prominent; 6 pyrenoids in a series; cell wall smooth.
Length: 70-73 µm, Breadth: 12-13 µm.
Collection No. DD-380, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filaments growing attached on pebbles & submerged weeds (pH 6,
temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of this taxon from India.
VI. Spirotaenia Brébisson
Cells solitary, sometimes in pairs and enclosed by a common mucilaginous mass,
small to medium sized, cylindrical, oblong-cylindrical, elliptic or fusiform, straight,
sometimes slightly lunate, with broadly rounded apex, apex sometimes acutely
pointed. Chloroplast parietal, spirally coiled band, extending end to end, pyrenoids
several. Cell wall smooth and colourless.
SYSTEMATIC PART
56
1. Spirotaenia condensata Brébisson
(West & GS West 1904, p. 38, pl. 2, f. 7-10; Krieger 1937, p. 181, pl. 2, f. 1;
Prescott et al. 1972, p. 15, pl. 3, f. 18-21; Lenzenweger 2003, p. 26, pl. 10, f. 5-7)
[Pl. I, f. 29-32]
Cells cylindrical with broadly rounded poles, 4-8 times longer than broad; lateral
walls slightly convex, nearly parallel, wall smooth; chloroplast a broad parietal
ribbon making 7 close turns.
Length: 88-136 µm, Breadth: 17-22 µm, Apex: 5-6 µm.
Collection No. DD-489, 09.11.2009, Khechiperi Lake, Sikkim. In association
with other phytoplanktons of squished water from Sphagnum growing on the
banks of the Lake (pH 6, temp. 14°C); DD-833, 12.11.2011, Lava, West Bengal.
In association with blackish filamentous mass on decayed plant.
Indian distribution: Khan River, Indore (Rao et al. 1981); West Bengal
(Mukherjee & Srivastava 1993); Sattar, Tamil Nadu (Rajagopal et al. 2010);
Kerala (John & Francis 2010).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
VII. Tortitaenia (Ralfs) Brook
Cells solitary, oblong-cylindrical, elliptic or fusiform, straight with apex rounded or
sub-acute. Cells sometimes lie in mucilaginous sheath. Chloropalst axial, consisting
of a core of several spirally coiled ridges like a ‘screw’.
Key to the taxa investigated:
1. Cells smaller in dimension, up to 70 µm in length, chloroplast having 3 turns
..............................................(1) T. alpina
1. Cells of larger dimension, more than 100 µm length, chloroplast almost straight
...........................................(2) T. obscura
1. Tortitaenia alpina (Schmidle) Brook
(John et al. 2002, p. 505, pl. 128K, f. 9, 10)
[Pl. I, f. 21]
SYSTEMATIC PART
57
Cells small, sub-cylindrical, 4-5 times longer than broad; lateral margin convex at
the mid-region and tapering to a narrowly rounded poles; chloroplast axial core
making 3 turns.
Length: 58-66 µm, Breadth: 14-15 µm, Apex: 3-5 µm.
Collection No. DD-27, 16.04.2009, Chonam cho Lake, Pelling, Sikkim. With
phytoplankton samples collected from the Lake (pH 5, temp. 21ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of this taxon from India.
2. Tortitaenia obscura (Ralfs) Brook
(Yasmin et al. 2011, p. 6, f. 4a)
[Pl. I, f. 22-24]
Cells medium sized, 5-6 times longer than broad, broadly fusiform in the
midregion, attenuated at the apices; apex rounded; chloroplast axial, not quiet
extended to the poles, cristate with 4 ridges, spirally twisted to the left, almost
straight, the ridges thickened at the free margins; pyrenoid several; cell wall
areolate.
Length: 129-164 µm, Breadth: 22-25 µm, Apex: 4-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-380, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green scum in a swamp (pH 6, temp. 10ºC); DD-574, 10.11.2009. Uttare,
Sikkim. In association with brawn scum collected from a rock pool (pH 6, temp.
16ºC); DD-726, 02.05.2010, Mach pokhri, Kalimpong. In association with green
filaments attached on a submerged substrate (pH 6.4, temp. 24ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern Himalaya (Yasmin et al. 2011).
Desmidiales: Placoderm desmids
(Gonatozygaceae, Peniaceae, Closteriaceae, Desmidiaceae)
Cells having cell wall consisting two pieces called semicell, adjoined in the mid
region by distinct isthmus, sometimes cells attached end to end forming pseudo-
filament, cell wall with pores and other ornamentations, sometimes smooth.
Key to the genera described:
SYSTEMATIC PART
58
1. Cells attached end to end forming filament
2. Cells attached by apical granules or rod like processes
3. Cells united by apical granules…………………..………...…(XVII) Teilingia
3. Cells united by rod-like processes……………........………(XII) Onychonema
2. Cells attached by their apical wall
3. Cells cylindrical…………………………..…........……………(X) Hyalotheca
3. Cells shaped otherwise
4. Semicells transversely oval or reniform, sinus distinct...(XV) Spondylosium
4. Semicells mostly quadrangular, sinus indistinct………........(V) Desmidium
1. Cells solitary, not in filaments, rarely forming pseudofilaments
5. Cells elongate, cylindrical, straight or slightly curved or crescent shaped
6. Cells curved or crescent shaped…………………........................(III) Closterium
6. Cells straight, not curved
7. Apex of the semicells with spines
8. Cells bearing whorls of spines or tooth throughout the length
……….(XIX) Triploceras
8. Cells without whorls or tooth throughout the length…...(XVIII) Triplastrum
7. Apex of the semicells smooth, sometimes with granules
9. Cells with conspicuous median constriction
10. Semicells with one or more basal swelling………...(XIV) Pleurotaenium
10. Semicells without basal swelling…………..........................(XIII) Penium
9. Median constriction inconspicuous or absent
11. Median constriction inconspicuous, each semicells containing single
SYSTEMATIC PART
59
chloroplast....................................................................(IX) Haplotaenium
11. Median constriction absent, chloroplast covering the entire cell
12. Chloroplast 2-3 spirally coiled parietal bands…........(VII) Genicularia
12. Chloroplast single, axial ribbon like………….......(VIII) Gonatozygon
5. Cells not elongate, nor cylindric, compressed and stout
13. Cells strongly compressed dorsiventrally
14. Cells disc shaped, flat with radiating lobes and sometimes with lobules
extended in one plane......................................................(XI) Micrasterias
14. Cells cup shaped or narrowly elliptic with 2 or more arms extended in
one or more plane..........................................................(XVI) Staurastrum
13. Cells not compressed dorsiventrally
15. Semicells with apical constriction..........................................(VI) Euastrum
15. Semicells without apical constriction
16. Semicells with long stout spines
17. Semicells with 2 lateral spines, not in pairs…........(II) Arthrodesmus
17. Semicells with 4-8 or more spines always in pair...(XX) Xanthidium
16. Semicells without spines, if present are minute
19. Median incision or sinus conspicuous.....................(IV) Cosmarium
19. Median incision or sinus shallow and inconspicuous
.....................................(I) Actinotaenium
I. Actinotaenium (Nägeli) Teiling
Cells solitary, elongate, sometimes short, fusiform to cylindrical with a very shallow,
faint median constriction; lateral walls parallel or tapering to the apex; apex broadly
SYSTEMATIC PART
60
rounded or sometimes truncate; chloroplast single, mostly axial and stellate,
sometimes having several longitudinal ridges with single central pyrenoid (rarely 2-
3); cell wall smooth or punctate or granulate or scrobiculate.
Key to the taxa investigated:
1. Cells having sinus with a very shallow notch, sometimes not prominent
2. Cells small, shaped cylindrical
3. Cells with lateral walls parallel, apex broadly rounded
……..……(3) A. cucurbita f. rotundatum
3. Cells with lateral walls slightly tapering, apex narrowly rounded
…...….…(4) A. cucurbitinum f. minutum
2. Cells relatively larger, shaped oval
4. Cells stout, less than 2 times longer than broad, punctae with honey-comb like
ornamentation pattern……………………...…….…(8) A. sikkimicum sp. nov.
4. Cells slender, 2 times or more longer than broad, punctae arranged in vertical
series not like above…………...………………………(2) A. capax var. minus
1. Cells having well marked sinus
5. Semicells semicircular
6. Cells with greatest breadth at the lower half of the semicells, apex little
tapering…………………………………….………………(9) A. subglobosum
6. Cells with greatest breadth at the middle of the semicells, apex broadly
rounded……………………………………………..…………(7) A. globosum
5. Semicells not semicircular, rather cylindrical
7. Cells smaller in dimension, below 40 µm in length, apex sharply rounded
…...………………(5) A. curtum f. minus
7. Cells relatively larger, above 40 µm in length, apex broadly rounded
8. Cells elongate, mostly above 2 times longer than broad, sinus very shallow
SYSTEMATIC PART
61
……(6) A. diplosporum var. americanum
8. Cells stout, less than 2 times longer than broad, sinus relatively deep
…………………..…….…(1) A. australe
1. Actinotaenium australe (Raciborski) Croasdale
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 4, pl. 150, f. 14, 15)
[Pl. II, f. 47, 48]
Cells medium sized, broadly elliptic, 1.6 times longer than broad, scarcely
constricted at isthmus, very little tapered at the apex; apex broadly rounded;
chloroplast with 6 longitudinal lamellae and a large central pyrenoid; wall
punctate.
Length: 88-89 µm, Breadth: 54-55 µm, Isthmus: 45-46 µm.
Collection No: DD-379, 06.11.2009. Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filaments growing attached on pebbles & submerged weeds (pH 6,
temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of this taxon from India.
2. Actinotaenium capax (Joshua) Teiling var. minus (Schmidle) Teiling ex Růžička
et Pouzer
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 6, pl. 156, f. 9)
[Pl. II, f. 49, 50]
Cells large, ovate, 2 times longer than broad; median incision very much shallow,
semicells with highest width just above the base, then tapering to the broadly
rounded apex; cell wall punctate, punctae evenly distributed in several vertical
lines except the narrow zone of isthmus which is smooth; chloroplast parietal with
4 longitudinal ridges.
Length: 109-114 µm, Breadth: 54-57 µm, Isthmus: 49-52 µm.
Our specimen is bit smaller than the type.
Collection No. DD-389, 06.11.2009. Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with light green filaments on the surface ofthe water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of this taxon from India.
SYSTEMATIC PART
62
3. Actinotaenium cucurbita (Brébisson) Teiling ex Růžička et Pouzer var. cucurbita
f. rotundatum (Krieger) Teiling
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 10, pl. 152, f. 12-14)
[Pl. III, f. 61]
Cells small, 1.5-2 times longer than broad; sinus a notch; sides convex, tapering
only very slightly toward the apex; apex broadly rounded; cell wall with fine,
sparse punctae, randomly distributed, wall slightly thickened; chloroplast axial
with irregular longitudinal lamellae.
Length: 31-32 µm, Breadth: 17-19 µm, Isthmus: 16-17 µm.
Collection No: DD-124, 18.04.2009. Khechiperi Lake, Sikkim. From the water
squished from the bog pool (pH 5, temp. 19ºC).
Indian distribution: Kerala (Sindhu & Panikkar 1995a).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
4. Actinotaenium cucurbitinum (Bisset) Teiling var. cucurbitinum f. minutum
(Teiling) Croasdale
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 12, pl. 151, f. 6-7)
[Pl. III, f. 60]
Cells small, 2 times longer than broad; sinus a shallow notch; lateral margin
slightly tapered to rounded apex; cell wall finely and sparsely punctate;
chloroplast axial.
Length: 31-33 µm, Breadth: 16-17 µm, Isthmus: 15-16 µm.
Collection No. DD-393, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake. In association with light
green filaments growing on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC). DD-525,
10.11.2009, Dentam River. In association with deep green filamentous masses
floating freely on the surface of water (pH 6, temp. 19ºC).
Indian distribution: Karnataka (Isaacs & Hegde 1987).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
5. Actinotaenium curtum (Brébisson ex Ralfs) Teiling ex Růžička et Pouzer var.
curtum f. minus (Rabenhorst) Teiling ex Croasdale
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 14, pl. 8, f. 6)
[Pl. II, f. 56-58]
SYSTEMATIC PART
63
Cells small, about 1.5-2 times longer than broad; sinus a shallow notch; sides of
semicell tapering strongly to a broadly rounded apex; chloroplast axial with
several longitudinal lamellae and a central pyrenoid; cell wall may be smooth or
finely punctate.
Length: 23-34 µm, Breadth: 14-18 µm, Isthmus: 12-15 µm.
Collection No. DD-523, 10.11.2009. Dentum River, Sikkim. In association with
green filaments on rocks under flowing water (pH 6, temp. 19ºC). DD-454,
09.11.2009. Kanchanjangha falls, Sikkim. In association with brown scum on wet
rocks in partially shady place. DD-794, 11.11.2011, Rishop, West Bengal. As
black powdery mass in association with mosses growing on tree trunk.
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
6. Actinotaenium diplosporum (Lundel) Teiling var. americanum (West et GS
West) Teiling
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 16, pl. 155, f. 7, 8)
[Pl. III, f. 62]
Cells medium sized, about 2 times longer than broad, elongate, guitar shaped (i.e.
greatest breadth in the middle of the semicells); sinus shallow but prominent; apex
broad, truncately rounded; chloroplast axial; cell wall evenly and coarsely
punctate.
Length: 52-55 µm, Breadth: 23-26 µm, Isthmus: 18-21 µm.
Collection No. DD-389, 06.11.2009. Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with light green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar & Agarkar 1977).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
7. Actinotaenium globosum (Bulnheim) Förster ex Compère var. globosum f.
globosum
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 17, pl. 150, f. 8-11; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 117, pl. 17, f. 3)
[Pl. III, f. 59]
Cells small, 1.5-2 times longer than broad; slightly but sharply constricted at the
midregion; semicells semicircular in outline; lateral margins with apex broadly
rounded; cell wall finely punctate; chloroplast axial with single central pyrenoid.
SYSTEMATIC PART
64
Length: 31-32 µm, Breadth: 17-19 µm, Isthmus: 15-16 µm.
Collection No: DD-419, 6.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
greenish-yellow filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC). DD-
396, 6.11.2009. Baba Mandir, Sikkim. In association with wet grass growing in a
swallow damp (pH 6.5, temp. 13ºC).
Indian distribution: Gujarat (Kamat 1962); Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar &
Agarkar 1977); Kashmir (Compère 1983).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
8. Actinotaenium sikkimicum sp. nov.
[Pl. II, f. 51, 52]
Cells large, 1.7 times longer than broad; Sinus only a shallow notch; lateral
margins convex and attenuated to the apex forming broadly rounded poles; cell
wall punctate, 6 punctae arranged in such a manner just like honey-comb all over
the cell wall; chloroplast axial with central pyrenoid.
Length: 112-115 µm, Breadth: 65-67 µm, Isthmus: 62-64 µm.
Present taxon is quiet similar in morphology to A. capax (Joshua) Teiling but
differs in following:
1. Honey-comb like ornamentation pattern on the cell wall
2. Cell stouter, length/breadth ratio less than 2.
It differs from all other species of Actinotaenium in having Honey-comb like
ornamentation pattern on the cell wall.
Holotype No. DD-380, 06.11.2009. Bitang-cho Lake. In association with deep
green filamentous mass floating freely on the surface of water forming bloom (pH
6, temp. 10ºC). Kept in the algae herbarium, Department of Botany, The
University of Burdwan (BURD).
9. Actinotaenium subglobosum (Nordstedt) Teiling
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 22, pl. 150, f. 16-18; Lenzenweger, 1996, p. 119, pl. 17, f.
4)
[Pl. II, f. 53, 54, pl. III, f. 55]
SYSTEMATIC PART
65
Cells medium sized, 1.5-2 times longer than broad; sinus shallow notch; lateral
margins and apex broadly rounded; cell wall sparsely punctate; chloroplast
stelloid with 6 longitudinal lamellae.
Length: 36-74 µm, Breadth: 20-48 µm, Isthmus: 19-20 µm.
One specimen was recorded having larger dimension than the type
Collection No: DD-284, 12.05.2009. Backthong falls, Sikkim. In association with
liverworts growing on the wet rock. DD-583, 12.11.2009. In association with wet
mosses forming brown scum growing on the soil.
Indian distribution: Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar et al. 1979).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
II. Arthrodesmus Ehrenberg ex Ralfs
Solitary, small to medium sized, compressed. Median constriction fairly deep, sinus
open, broad, rarely closed often broadly ‘V’-shaped. In face view semicells may be
semicircular, quadrate, elliptic, sub-elliptic or triangular rarely polygonal. In vertical
view the semicells are elliptic or oval. Semicells furnished with a pair of simple
lateral spines emerge from lateral angles. Spines short or long, stout or rarely small
minute, upwardly or downwardly directed sometimes straight parallel, horizontally
placed. Cell wall smooth or finely punctate; face of the semicells always smooth,
without any protuberance. Chloroplast axial, 1-2 in each semicell with a central
pyrenoids.
Key to the taxa investigated:
1. Semicells trapeziform or sub-trapezoid, apex flat, spines straight, upwardly
directed………………………………………………........................(4) A. extensus
1. Semicells transversely sub-elliptic, spines curved, downwardly directed
2. Sinus acute angled at the extremity, spines acicular
…...…(1) A. convergens var. convergens
2. Sinus rounded at the extremity, spines blunt
3. Spines short, cell wall smooth..........................(3) A. curvatus var. americanus
SYSTEMATIC PART
66
3. Spines long, cell wall densely punctate........(2) A. convergens var. incrassatus
1. Arthrodesmus convergens Ehrenberg ex Ralfs var. convergens
(Prescott et al. 1982, p. 10, pl. 304, f. 2-4, 6, 9f, 12f)
[Pl. III, f. 63-65]
Cells medium sized, 1.1-1.3 times longer than broad without spines; median
constriction deep, the sinus widely open, acute angled with a rounded extremity;
semicells transversely sub-elliptic, the basal margins convex, the angles attenuate,
acute and furnished with a stout, rather long, slightly downwardly projected
curved spine; the apex relatively broad and convex, the contour of the apex and
the spines forming an arch; cell wall smooth.
Length: 39-45 µm, Breadth: 55-58 µm (with spines), 38-43 µm (without spines),
Isthmus: 9-23 µm.
Collection No. DD-125, DD-133, 18.04.2009, Khechiperi Lake, Sikkim. In
association with brownish wooly masses growing in water. (pH 5.5, temp. 17°C).
DD-420, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake Sikkim. In association with brownish
wooly masses growing in water. (pH 5.5, temp. 10°C).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Karnataka (Bharati, 1965);
Bombay & Karnataka (Bharati 1966); Ranchi, Bihar (Sinha & Mishra 1967);
Andhra Pradesh (Suxena & Venkateswarlu 1970); Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
(Agarkar 1971); Kodaikanal, (Bharati & Pai 1972); Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat
1975); Udalkachar, Madhya Pradesh (Habib 1991); Rohilakhand, Uttar Pradesh
(Habib 1993); West Bengal (Mukherjee & Srivastava 1993); Uttar Pradesh (Misra
& Srivastava 2003); Uttarakhand (Misra et al. 2008); Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh
(Habib 2008); Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh (Habib 2009); Dehradun, Uttarakhand
(Habib & Chaturvedi 2012).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
2. Arthrodesmus convergens Ehrenberg ex Ralfs var. incrassatus Gutwinski
(Prescott et al. 1982, p. 11, pl. 303, f. 5, 7, 11)
[Pl. III, f. 68, 69]
Cells medium sized, slightly longer than broad without spines; median
constriction deep, sinus widely open with rounded extremities; semicells
SYSTEMATIC PART
67
transversely sub-elliptic, somewhat depressed; apex truncately rounded; angles
furnished with a long, blunt simple, curved spine downwardly directed; basal
margins broadly convex; cell wall densely punctate; semicells with single
chloroplast.
Length: 30-33 µm, Breadth: 55-58 µm (with spines), 29-32 µm (without spines),
Isthmus: 5-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-411, 06.11.2009 Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
light green filaments swims freely on the surface of the water. (pH 6, Temp.
10°C).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
3. Arthrodesmus curvatus Turner var. americanus Scott et Gronblad
(Prescott et al. 1982, p. 13, pl. 307, f. 4, 6, 7; pl. 308, f. 5, 7, 8)
[Pl. III, f. 70-73]
Cells medium sized, about 1.3 times longer than broad without spines; median
constriction deep, sinus wide open with rounded extremities; semicells
transversely elliptic; lateral angles furnished with a simple, long, blunt, curved
stout spine which is downwardly directed; basal margins slightly convex; cell wall
smooth; in vertical view cell elliptic with ends furnished with single long spine;
chloroplast 2 in each semicells.
Length: 28-29 µm, Breadth: 37-40 µm (with spines), 25-28 µm (without spines),
Isthmus: 8-11 µm.
Collection No. DD-410, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with deep green filaments floating freely on the surface of the water. (pH 6, Temp.
10°C).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
4. Arthrodesmus extensus (Borge) Hirano var. extensus
(Prescott et al. 1982, p. 15, pl. 299, f. 3, 7, 8, 13-15, 20)
[Pl. III, f. 66, 67]
Cells small, 1.4-1.5 times broader than long, median constriction deep, the sinus
widely open, sub-semicircular; isthmus somewhat elongate; semicells sub-
trapeziform, the lower, lateral margin straight, the basal angle obtusely rounded,
SYSTEMATIC PART
68
the upper, lateral margin straight and diverging upwards, the upper angles sharper,
acute angled and furnished with a simple, long, straight, divergent spine; the apex
broad, flat; cell wall smooth.
Length: 35-36 µm (with spine) 22-23 µm (without spine), Breadth: 51-52 µm
(with spine) 25-26 µm (without spine), Isthmus: 7-9 µm.
Collection No. DD-410, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with deep green filaments floating freely on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp.
10°C).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
III. Closterium Nitzsch ex Ralfs
Cells solitary, elongate-cylindrical to elongate-fusiform, lunate, crescent-shaped or
sometimes straight, needle shaped, attenuated from the midregion to broad, truncate
or rounded, narrowly pointed or bluntly to sharply acute or rounded apices, rarely
apex may enlarged, knob-like thick or button-like, some species with apical extension
extended into rostrate or seta-like projections, sometimes apex may be incurved or
recurved; midregion may be tumid for variable length, ventral margin may be convex,
straight, or convex for its entire length; cell wall smooth, striated, costate or punctate,
there are several pattern of these ornamentations; cell wall may be yellowish or
brownish but mostly colourless; in some species one or more girdle bands present on
the midregion or just away from the midregion; chloroplast two, one in each
semicells, rarely four, axial plate or with several longitudinal ridges; pyrenoids few to
many, usually in single series or sometimes scatteredly arranged throughout the
chloroplast; single nucleus in the midregion between the two chloroplast; often with
terminal vacuoles having several vibrating granules.
Key to the taxa investigated:
1. Cells without a girdle band
2. Cells straight, sometimes little curved only for the small apical portion
3. Apex broad or swollen
SYSTEMATIC PART
69
4. Apex swollen, button like….……...………...(32) Cl. mamenchoenum sp. nov.
4. Apex flat or rounded, not swollen
5. Both the margins equally curved
6. Apex truncate, cell wall smooth
7. Cells small, not more than 130 µm
8. Cell broad, fusiform, midregion inflated……………..(36) Cl. navicula
8. Cells slightly longer, midregion not inflated
9. Apex broadly rounded, terminal vacuoles with vibrating granules
.………….(26) Cl. libellula var. libellula
9. Apex flat, terminal vacuoles not having granules
……....(27) Cl. libellula var. intermidium
7. Cell dimension large, more than 400 µm….......(46) Cl. rectimarginatum
6. Apex flat with rounded angles, cell wall striated
…………….(48) Cl. reticulatum sp. nov.
5. Dorsal margin more curved than the ventral, ventral wall straight or very
slightly curved
10. Ventral margin very slightly concave, apex broadly rounded
…………………...(45) Cl. pseudolunula
10. Ventral margin distinctly convex, apex sharply rounded or flat
11. Cells larger, apex flat……………..(31) Cl. lunula var. lunula f. minor
11. Cells smaller, apex sharply or acutely rounded
…….(30) Cl. lunula var. lunula f. lunula
3. Apex not broad or swollen, rather pointed
12. Cells narrow, long and slender
SYSTEMATIC PART
70
13. Certain part of the cells apex recurved
14. Cells longer, above 100 µm long...………….(20) Cl. gracile var. gracile
14. Cells smaller in length, less than 100 µm long
………………(21) Cl. gracile var. tenue
13. Cells straight for its all part, apex not recurved
15. Apex acutely pointed, cell smaller in length, below 100 µm. long
……………………......….(4) Cl. acutum
15. Apex acutely rounded, cell larger, above 100 µm. long
……...…(7) Cl. bitangchoianum sp. nov.
12. Cells less slender, inflated in the midregion
16. Cells recurved in the apical region
17. Cells longer, about ¼ portion of the midregion inflated, apical extension
long, cell wall striated…………………………….……(51) Cl. setaceum
17. Cells relatively small, ¾ portion of the midregion inflated, apical
extension short, cell wall smooth……………..……….(49) Cl. rostratum
16. Cells not recurved in the apical region
18. Isthmus region pointed
19. Apex with invagination, chloroplast not ridged
....(29) Cl. littorale var. indicum var. nov.
19. Apex not invaginate, chloroplast ridged
.....(28) Cl. libellula var. sikkimense var nov.
18. Isthmus region not pointed
20. Apex narrow-blunt, cell wall colourless, pyrenoids 5-7
……………………(57) Cl. subfusiforme
20. Apex narrow-rounded, broader, cell wall yellowish in colour,
SYSTEMATIC PART
71
pyrenoids many, 9-11 in number….......(47) Cl. rectimarginatum forma
2. Cells curved, bow-shaped to crescent-shaped
21. Apex truncate, broadly or sharply rounded
22. Apex truncate or broadly rounded
23. Apex truncate…..…………….……...…..…(3) Cl. acerosum var. tumidum
23. Poles broadly rounded
24. Midregion definitely tumid and pointed
….(16) Cl. ehrenbergii var. ehrenbergii forma
24. Midregion less tumid
25. Apex more curved
26. Cell dimension small, less than 100 µm long
……………....(14) Cl. eborascens forma
26. Cells relatively large, length more than 250 µm long
……………..……….(13) Cl. eborascens
25. Apex not curved
27. Pyrenoids 3-4 arranged in series
….(34) Cl. moniliferum var. moniliferum
27. Pyrenoids 7-9 in series, scatteredly arranged
….(35) Cl. moniliferum var. submoniliferum
22. Apex not broad, sharply rounded
28. Midregion tumid
29. Cell wall definitely striated…..(17) Cl. ehrenbergii var. malinvernianum
29. Cell wall smooth……………..…….(15) Cl. ehrenbergii var. ehrenbergii
28. Midregion straight or convex
SYSTEMATIC PART
72
30. Ventral wall convex, cells small, 50-60 µm. long
....(33) Cl. minutum var. indicum sp. nov.
30. Ventral wall straight, cells large 400-450 µm. long
…….(18) Cl. ehrenbergii var. podolicum
21. Apex narrow, acute, sharply or narrowly rounded
31. Cells larger, more than 100 µm. in length
32. Midregion slightly tumid
33. Cells strongly curved, curvature 140º-160º
34. Ventral wall less tumid, apex rounded…….(61) Cl. tumidulum forma
34. Ventral wall distinctly tumid, apex narrow………(60) Cl. tumidulum
33. Cells less curved
35. Apex pointed, cell wall redish-yellow
…….…(5) Cl. arcuarium var. arcuarium
35. Apex blunt, cell wall not yellowish
….(6) Cl. arcuarium var. sikkimense var. nov.
32. Midregion not tumid
36. Cell less curved, curvature less than 110º
37. Poles not oblique, sharply rounded..…..….(38) Cl. parvulum forma
37. Poles obliquely rounded, pointed
38. Dorsal wall more curved than the ventral
………………(12) Cl. dianae var. minor
38. Both walls are similarly curved…....(11) Cl. dianae var. brevius
36. Cells more curved, curvature more than 110º
39. Poles narrowly and obliquely truncate
SYSTEMATIC PART
73
40. Larger, cell wall punctuate, dorsal wall angularly curved
………..…(9) Cl. calosporum var. maius
40. Shorter, cell wall smooth, dorsal wall smoothly curved
….. (8) Cl. calosporum var. calosporum f. erectum
39. Poles sharply rounded
41. Larger in size, small portion of the midregion tumid, strongly
curved……………………..….………(39) Cl. parvulum var. maius
41. Relatively small, midregion more or less retuse
42. Apex pointed, broader………….(37) Cl. parvulum var. parvulum
42. Apex blunt, less broader……...…(40) Cl. parvulum var. obtusum
31. Cells smaller, less than 100 µm. in length
43. Apex acutely pointed
44. Cell dimension small, narrow, 10-13 times longer than broad
…...………….(24) Cl. incurvum forma 2
44. Cell dimension relatively higher, stouter, 6-7 times longer than broad
45. Angle of arc greater than 170º...........(22) Cl. incurvum var. incurvum
45. Angle of arc less than 170º………..………(23) Cl. incurvum forma 1
43. Apex narrow but bluntly pointed
46. Cells much smaller, less than 40µm. long
………(63) Cl. venus var. venus f. minor
46. Cells relatively larger, greater than 40µm. long
47. Cells much stouter, arc is higher, more than 175º
………………..(64) Cl. venus f. crassum
47. Cells slightly slender, arc less than 170º
……….(62) Cl. venus var. venus f. venus
SYSTEMATIC PART
74
1. Cells with a girdle band
48. Cells straight or bow shaped, angle of arc less than 60º
49. Apex truncate or broadly rounded
50. Cell wall striated
51. Apex slightly enlarged, sometimes with sub-polar thickening
52. Cells slightly inflated in the midregion
…..(55) Cl. striolatum var. subtruncatum
52. Cells not inflated in the midregion
53. Apex truncate, narrower………………(53) Cl. striolatum var. erectum
53. Apex broadly rounded, broader..…(54) Cl. striolatum var. subdirectum
51. Apex not enlarged and without any sub-polar thickening
54. Wall striations interrupted and broken, cell dimension smaller
…………………….(56) Cl. subcosticum
54. Wall striations continuous, cell dimension higher
………………...(58) Cl. subjuncidiforme
50. Cell wall smooth
55. Cells slender, 14-20 times longer than broad
56. Midregion slightly inflated, cells 260-270 µm. long...…..(41) Cl. planum
56. Midregion not inflated, cells 675-680 µm. long
…………….(52) Cl. sikkimicum sp. nov.
55. Cells rather stout, 9-10 times longer than broad
57. Curvature more than 60º…………...………(2) Cl. abruptum var. brevius
57. Curvature less than 60º………….………(1) Cl. abruptum var. abruptum
49. Apex narrow or sometimes bluntly pointed
SYSTEMATIC PART
75
58. Cells broader, 5-7 times longer than broad
59. Cells slightly curved, 63º of arc, cell wall striated
…(50) Cl. rostratum var. sikkimicum var. nov.
59. Cells almost straight, 44º of arc, cell wall punctate
…..(42) Cl. pritchardianum var. pritchardianum f. attenuata
58. Cell slender, 12-52 times longer than broad
60. Cell wall striated, apical extension long, seta-like……....(25) Cl. kuetzingii
60. Cell wall smooth, apex not extended into seta-like process
………………………...(19) Cl. elenkinii
48. Cells strongly curved, lunate, angle of arc more than 60º
61. Apex acutely pointed
62. Cell dimension small, 52-55 µm long, ventral margin in the midregion
almost straight……………………………..(44) Cl. pseudoincurvum sp. nov.
62. Cell dimension larger, 193-196 µm long, ventral margins curved
...………(43) Cl. pseudocynthia sp. nov.
61. Apex narrowly rounded
63. Cell wall striated……………………………..………………(10) Cl. cynthia
63. Cell wall smooth………………………………………….(59) Cl. tacomense
1. Closterium abruptum West var. abruptum
(West 1892, p. 719, pl. 9, f. 1; West & GS West 1904, p. 158, pl. 20, f. 6-10;
Krieger 1937, p. 306, pl. 21, f. 9, pl. 22, f. 5-7; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 25, pl. 18,
f. 9, 12; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 31, pl. 5, f. 4)
[Pl. XVIII, f. 341-343]
Cells elongate, 9-11 times longer than broad, almost straight or slightly curved in
midregion but more curved toward the extremities having 53-67° of arc,
SYSTEMATIC PART
76
gradually but slightly attenuated toward the broadly truncated poles; wall smooth
and colourless; girdle bands distinctly present, single; chloroplast with 6
longitudinal ridges with an axial row of 2-3 pyrenoids in each chloroplast.
Length: 146-154µm, Breadth: 15-17 µm, Apex: 6-8 µm.
Collection No. DD-409, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with yellowish-green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
DD-757, Lava, West Bengal. In association with wet mosses growing on the
surface of the soil (pH 6, temp. 16ºC).
Indian distribution: Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar & Agarkar 1977; Agarkar et al.
1979), West Bengal (Pal & Santra 1993); Hatia Dam, Ranchi (Sharan & Sinha
2010).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
2. Closterium abruptum West var. brevius (West et GS West) West et GS West
(West & GS West 1904, p. 160, pl. 20, f. 11,12; Krieger 1937, p. 308, pl. 22, f.
10; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 26, pl. 18, f. 10,17; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 31, pl. 5, f.
5)
[Pl. XIII, f. 286, 287]
Cell shorter and stouter, 9-11 times longer than broad, almost straight in the
midregion but more curved towards the extremities, gradually but slightly
attenuated toward the broadly truncated poles having 60-70° of arc; wall smooth
and slightly brown in colour; girdle bands present, two in number.
Length: 166-169 µm, Breadth: 15-17µm, Apex: 7-8 µm.
Collection No. DD-418, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Andhra Pradesh (Suxena & Venkateswarlu 1966); Gujarat
(Patel 1979); Bandhabgarh, Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar et al. 1979); Bareilly,
Uttar Pradesh (Pandey et al. 1987); Ranchi (Das 2007); Mamencho Lake, Sikkim
(Das & Keshri 2012).
3. Closterium acerosum (Schrank) Ehrenberg var. tumidum Borge
(Krieger 1937, p. 319, pl. 24, f. 7; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 29, pl. 13, f. 12)
[Pl. IX, f. 269]
SYSTEMATIC PART
77
Cells large, 8-9 times longer than broad, slightly curved, almost straight,
narrowly fusiform, stout, 49-58° of arc; the inner margin slightly convex in the
midregion, dorsal margin convex, gradually attenuated to the poles forming
truncately rounded apices; chloroplast axial having several pyrenoids; cell wall
smooth.
Length: 215-354 µm, Breadth: 29-44 µm, Apex: 6-10 µm.
Collection No. DD-418, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Kashmir (Suxena & Venkateswarlu 1968b); Uttarakhand
(Misra et al. 2007).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
4. Closterium acutum Brébisson
(West & GS West 1904, p. 177, pl. 23, f. 9-14; Krieger 1937, p. 259, pl. 13, f. 10-
13; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 30, pl. 16, f. 23, 24; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 32, pl. 2, f.
7-9)
[Pl. XVII, f. 330, 331]
Cells small, needle shaped, 14-21 times longer than broad, straight, 14° of arc
very much less than the typical; lateral margins very slightly curved, gradually
attenuated to the acutely rounded poles; cell wall smooth and colourless;
chloroplast axial with 4 axial pyrenoids.
Length: 81-84 µm, Breadth: 4-6 µm, Apex: 1-2 µm.
Arc is less in the present taxon.
Collection No. DD-380, 06.11.2009 Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green scum in a swamp (pH 6, temp. 10ºC); DD-724, 02.05.2010,
Kalimpong. In association with brown scum with wet mosses beside a drain (pH
6.5, temp. 24ºC).
Indian distribution: Gujarat (Kamat 1962); Andhra Pradesh (Suxena &
Venkateswarlu 1966a); Nainital (Kamat 1973); Maharashtra (Kamat 1968a,
1973, 1974, 1975); Shillong, Meghalaya (Gupta 2002).
This is the first report of the taxon from Sikkim.
5. Closterium arcuarium Hughes var. arcuarium
SYSTEMATIC PART
78
(Hughes 1952, p. 272, f. 23, 27, 57; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 34, pl. 19, f. 4)
[Pl. XXI, f. 367-369]
Cells elongate, 9-12 times longer than broad, moderately curved having 56-89º of
arc, ventral midregion evenly inflated; outer margin convex and inner margin
slightly convex at the midregion instead being concave; cells gradually
attenuated toward the apices; apex broadly attenuated; chloroplast with 7-9
pyrenoids in a series; cell wall smooth, colourless.
Length: 295-305 µm, Breadth: 25-44 µm, Apex: 3-4 µm.
Our specimens are larger than the type.
Collection No. DD-422, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with light green filaments floats freely on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp.
10ºC).
Indian distribution: Mamencho Lake, Sikkim (Das & Keshri 2012).
6. Closterium arcuarium Hughes var. sikkimense var. nov.
[Pl. XVIII, f. 336]
Cells moderaltely large, 8-9 times longer than broad, curvature is less, 56° of arc;
midregion tumid for about half of its length, dorsal margin evenly convex,
gradually narrowed to the poles, apex bluntly flat with rounded angles; cell wall
smooth and colourless; chloroplast with 3-5 pyrenoids.
Length: 245-250 µm, Breadth: 28-30 µm, Apex: 5-6 µm.
Present specimen differs from the typical one in several respects. i.e.
1. Greater dimension
2. Less angle of arc
3. Apex flat
4. Cell wall colourless
5. Slightly stouter.
Holotype No. DD-414, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filamentous mass attached to the surface of the submerged aquatic
plants (pH 6, temp 10ºC). Kept in the algae herbarium, Department of Botany,
The University of Burdwan (BURD).
7. Closterium bitangchoianum sp. nov.
SYSTEMATIC PART
79
[Pl. XVIII, f. 337, 338]
Cells long, 19-21 times longer than broad, elongate, straight, curvature very little,
17° of arc; lateral walls nearly parallel, very gradually attenuated to apices, apex
rounded and very slightly incurved; cell wall smooth and colourless, chloroplast
with 5 pyrenoids in series.
Length: 103-110 µm, Breadth: 5-6 µm, Apex: 2-3 µm.
Present specimen morphologically looks like Cl. aciculare West & Cl.
polystictum Nygaard but differs from both in many respects, viz.
From Cl. aciculare West by:
1. L/B ratio much less
2. Not incurved or pointed at ends
3. Terminal vacuoles not present
4. Length much small.
From Cl. polystictum Nygaard by:
1. Being not pointed
2. Lesser in dimension
3. L/B ratio smaller
4. Much smaller incurved.
Holotype No. DD-379, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with Deep green filamentous mass floating freely on the surface of water forming
bloom (pH 6, temp 10ºC). Kept in the algae herbarium, Department of Botany,
The University of Burdwan (BURD).
8. Closterium calosporum Wittrock var. calosporum f. erectum Prescott
(Prescott et al. 1975, p. 39, pl. 36, f. 11, 14)
[Pl. XIV, f. 298]
Cells medium sized, 9-10 times longer than broad, moderately curved, 118° of
arc; ventral margin straight for 2/3 distance of the margin then curved to the
poles, dorsal margin moderately curved; apex sub-acutely rounded; cell wall
smooth and colourless; chloroplast with 2 axial pyrenoids.
Length: 121-126 µm, Breadth: 13-14 µm, Apex: 4-5 µm.
Collection No. DD-577, 10.11.2009, Sungure, Sikkim. In association with green
filaments on wet rocks in the running water (pH 6, temp 16ºC).
SYSTEMATIC PART
80
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
9. Closterium calosporum Wittrock var. maius West et GS West
(Krieger 1937, p. 293, pl. 19, f. 4-7; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 39, pl. 36, f. 7, 9)
[Pl. XX, f. 363, 364]
Cells moderate sized, 9-10 times longer than broad, moderately curved, 121° of
arc; ventral margin straight in the midregion, dorsal margin more curve,
gradually tapering to acutely rounded poles; chloroplast axial with 4 pyrenoids in
each chloroplast; cell wall finely punctate.
Length: 171-173 µm, Breadth: 17-19 µm, Apex: 2-3 µm.
Collection No. DD-419, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with brownish scum on the surface of the wet rocks (pH 6, temp 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Andaman (Prasad & Misra 1984, 1992; Prasad et al. 1984);
Jalgaon, North Maharashtra (Mahajan & Nandan 2008).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
10. Closterium cynthia De Notaris var. cynthia
(West & GS West 1904, p. 113, pl. 11, f. 1-3; Krieger 1937, p. 365, pl. 35, f. 6-
10; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 45, pl. 35, f. 3, 4, 12)
[Pl. XIX, f. 353-356]
Cells moderately small, 8-13 times longer than broad, moderately curved, 125° of
arc; ventral margin usually strongly concave, the outer wall convex gradually
attenuated at the apices forming obtusely rounded poles; chloroplast axial with 4-
7 pyrenoids in each chloroplast; cell wall with strong striations; girdle band
present.
Length: 49-111 µm, Breadth: 4-10 µm, Apex: 2-5 µm.
The present specimen tallies with the typical but with having less arc.
Collection No. DD-483 09.11.2009, Khechiperi Lake, Sikkim. From the water
squished from the bog pool (pH 6, temp. 14°C). DD- 382, 06.11.2009, Bitang-
cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with Green filamentous mass attached to the
surface of the submerged aquatic plants (pH 6, temp 10ºC).
SYSTEMATIC PART
81
Indian distribution: East India (Turner 1892); Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat
1975); Karnataka and Goa (Bharti & Hegde 1982a); Kerala (Shaji et al. 1988);
Banjara and Nadimi Lakes, Andhra Pradesh (Johnson 2006); Kalimpong (Santra
& Pal 2006); Kitham Lake, Agra (Tiwari & Chauhan 2006); Jalgaon, North
Maharashtra (Mahajan & Nandan 2008); Uttar Pradesh (Shukla et al. 2008).
11. Closterium dianae Ehrenberg var. brevius (Petkoff) Krieger
(Krieger 1937, p. 296, pl. 19, f. 3; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 47, pl. 23, f. 9, 13)
[Pl. XIV, f. 297]
Cells small; 12-14 times longer than broad, moderately curved, 106° of arc;
ventral margin concave, dorsal margin more curved, narrowed at the poles
forming attenuated apices; chloroplast axial with 2-3 pyrenoids; cell wall smooth
and colourless.
Length: 122-126 µm, Breadth: 9-10 µm, Apex: 1-3 µm.
Collection No. DD-412, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with dark greenish filament floating freely on the surface of water (pH 6, temp
10ºC).
Indian distribution: Gujarat (Patel 1979); Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (Pandey et al.
1987); Nagpur, Maharashtra (Tarar et al. 1998).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
12. Closterium dianae Ehrenberg var. minor Hieronymus
(Krieger 1937, p. 19, pl. 19, f. 15 as Cl. dianae Ehrenberg var. minus (Wille)
Schröder; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 47, pl. 23, f. 8, 12)
[Pl. XVII, f. 324, 325]
Cells small, 6-8 times longer than broad; moderately curved, 111° of arc, dorsal
margin more curved than the ventral, gradually narrowed at the apices forming
attenuated-rounded poles; chloroplast axial with 2 pyrenoids in each semicells;
cell wall smooth and colourless; inner thickening of the wall at the apex is
present.
Length: 95-101 µm, Breadth: 12-15 µm, Apex: 2-3 µm.
SYSTEMATIC PART
82
Collection No. DD-419, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with brownish-yellow filamentous algal mass floating freely on the surface of the
water (pH 6, temp 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Kodaikanal, (Bharati & Pai 1972); Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh
(Pandey & Habib 1987); Basti, Uttar Pradesh (Misra et al. 2001).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
13. Closterium eboracense (Ehrenberg) Turner
(West & GS West 1904, p. 140, pl. 16, f. 7, 8; Krieger 1937, pl. 17, f. 4; Prescott
et al. 1975, p. 48, pl. 21, f. 2)
[Pl. XVII, f. 321, 322]
Cells large, 5-7 times longer than broad, moderately curved, 102-109° of arc;
ventral margin only slightly tumid in the midregion, outer margin strongly
convex, gradually attenuated to broadly rounded poles; chloroplast with 8
longitudinal ridges having several pyrenoids in series or sometimes scarreredly
disposed; cell wall smooth, colour slightly reddish-brown; terminal vacuoles with
granules.
Length: 265-280 µm, Breadth: 38-53 µm, Apex: 5-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-358, 13.05.2009, Bulbulay, Sikkim. With phytoplankton
sample collected from a shallow rock pool (pH 6, temp 17ºC). DD-728,
02.05.2010, Mach pokhri, West Bengal. With phytoplankton sample collected
from the water body (pH 6.5, temp. 22ºC).
Indian distribution: East India (Turner 1892); Gangtok, Sikkim (Prasad & Misra
1987).
14. Closterium eboracense (Ehrenberg) Turner forma
[Pl. XXIII, f. 393]
Cells small, 5-6 times longer than broad, stout, moderately curved, 117° of arc;
ventral margin very slightly tumid in the midregion, gradually narrowed to the
apex; poles broadly rounded; cell wall smooth, colour-less; chloroplast with 6
longitudinal ridges having 2 pyrenoids in each.
Length: 77-80 µm, Breadth: 13-15 µm, Apex: 4-5 µm.
Present specimen differ from the typical by,
SYSTEMATIC PART
83
1. Smaller dimension
2. Cell wall colourless.
Collection No. DD-506, 10.11.2009, Changey falls, Sikkim. In association with
dark brown scum on the surface of the rocks under flowing water (pH 6, temp
14ºC).
15. Closterium ehrenbergii Meneghini ex Ralfs var. ehrenbergii
(West & GS West 1904, p. 143, pl. 17, f. 1-4; Krieger 1937, p. 285, pl. 17, f. 1,
pl. 18, f. 1; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 83, pl. 31, f. 3, 12; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 39,
pl. 3, f. 10)
[Pl. XVII, f. 323]
Cells large, 4-6 times longer than broad, stout, moderately curved, 115° of arc;
ventral margin concave but prominently tumid in the midregion, dorsal wall
strongly convex, gradually attenuated to rounded apex; cell wall smooth, light
brown in colour; chloroplast filling the entire space of the cell and having 8
longitudinal ridges with numerous scatterdly arranged pyrenoids; terminal
vacuoles with numerous granules aggregated.
Length: 232-239 µm, Breadth: 45-48 µm, Apex: 6-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-350, 13.05.2009, Bulbulay, Sikkim. In association with
phytoplankton as powdery scum with mosses in a shady place (pH 6, temp 17ºC).
DD-714, 01.05.2010, Kalimpong. With phytoplankton sample collected from a
roadside water body (pH 6.5, temp. 25ºC).
Indian distribution: Banaras, Uttar Pradesh (Venkataraman 1957); Varuna,
Varanasi (Prasad 1964-65); Amritsar, Punjab (Singh 1966); Andhra Pradesh
(Suxena & Venkateswarlu 1968b); Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar 1969;
Agarkar & Agarker 1972); Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat 1975); Nagpur (Freitas
& Kamat 1979); Gujarat (Patel 1979); Karnataka and Goa (Bharti & Hegde
1982); Kashmir (Compère 1983); Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (Pandey & Habib
1987); Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (Pandey et al. 1987); Jalgaon, North Maharashtra
(Mahajan & Nandan 2008); Shillong (Das et al. 2009); Eastern Himalaya
(Yasmin et al. 2011).
16. Closterium ehrenbergii Meneghini ex Ralfs var. ehrenbergii forma
SYSTEMATIC PART
84
[Pl. XVI, f. 312, 313]
Cells large, 4-5 times longer than broad, stout, moderately curved, 121° of arc;
both the ventral and dorsal margins elevated distinctly in the midregion, dorsal
margin strongly curved but ventral wall less curved, gradually attenuated to the
apex; poles broadly rounded; cell wall smooth and colourless; chloroplast with
several pyrenoids in series.
Length: 215-225 µm, Breadth: 48-55 µm, Apex: 5-5 µm.
Present specimen differs from the typical by having distinctly elevated
midregion.
Collection No. DD-358, 13.05.2009, Bulbulay, Sikkim. With phytoplankton
sample collected from a shallow rock pool (pH 6, temp 17ºC).
17. Closterium ehrenbergii Meneghini ex Ralfs var. malinvernianum (De Notaris)
Rabenhorst
(West & GS West 1904, p. 145, pl. 17, f. 5, 6 as Cl. malinvernianum De Notaris;
Krieger 1937, p. 287, pl. 18, f. 2; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 50, pl. 21, f. 7;
Lenzenweger 1996, p. 39)
[Pl. XIII, f. 284, 285, 288, 289]
Cells large, 5-7 times longer than broad; moderately curved, 98-114° of arc;
ventral margin concave but inflated in the midregion, dorsal wall strongly
convex, gradually attenuated to rounded poles; chloroplast axial with numerous
scattered pyrenoids; cell wall striated and colourless.
Length: 247-305 µm, Breadth: 44-46 µm, Apex: 6-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-488, 09.11.2009, Khechiperi Lake, Sikkim. In association
with blackish mass with weeds (Potamogeton sp.) lodged on roots. DD-391,
06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake. Sikkim. In association with brownish scum
attached to the surface of the submerged part of the semi-aquatic plants (pH 6,
temp 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Uttar Pradesh (Sarma 1962; Prasad & Mehrotra 1977);
Andhra Pradesh (Suxena & Venkateswarlu 1968a); Gujarat (Patel 1979);
Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (Pandey et al. 1988).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
SYSTEMATIC PART
85
18. Closterium ehrenbergii Meneghini ex Ralfs var. podolicum Gutwinski
(Krieger 1937, p. 288, pl. 18, f. 5; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 50, pl. 20, f. 2, 7)
[Pl. XX, f. 359, 360]
Cells large, 4-5 times longer than broad; moderately curved, 115° of arc; ventral
margin straight at the midregion, the dorsal margin strongly curved, tapering
gradually and then abruptly in the apical region with apex slightly re-curved; cell
wall smooth and colourless.
Length: 470-480 µm, Breadth: 93-97 µm, Apex: 5-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-31, 16.04.2009. Pelling, Sikkim. In association with wet
mosses on the bark of a tree (pH 6, temp 21ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
19. Closterium elenkinii Kossinskaja
(Prescott et al. 1975, p. 51, pl. 19, f. 1-3)
[Pl. XIX, f. 351, 352]
Cells medium sized, 12-14 times longer than broad, slightly swollen in the
midregion, 71°of arc, narrowing abruptly toward the apical region with the apices
slightly produced; chloroplast with 4 longitudinal ridges with 4 pyrenoids in each
chloroplast; cell wall smooth; apical regions with vibrating granules.
Length: 255-264 µm, Breadth: 18-21 µm, Apex: 3-6 µm.
Collection No. DD- 412, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filaments attached on the surface of the partially submerged rocks (pH
6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
20. Closterium gracile Brébisson ex Ralfs var. gracile
(West & GS West 1904, p. 166, pl. 21, f. 8-10; Krieger 1937, pl. 30, f. 7-9;
Prescott et al. 1975, p. 52, pl. 16, f. 2, 15, 16; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 39, pl. 5, f.
1)
[Pl. XIX, f. 357, 358]
Cells medium sized, 25-36 times longer than broad, slender, almost straight for
more than two-third the length, curvature 37° of arc; margins parallel, gradually
SYSTEMATIC PART
86
narrowed and gracefully curved toward the apical region, poles obtuse; cell wall
smooth and colourless; chloroplast with 14 pyrenoids.
Length: 144-151 µm, Breadth: 4-6 µm, Apex: 2-3 µm.
Collection No. DD-413, DD-414, DD-415, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake,
Sikkim. In association with green filaments attached on the surface of the
partially submerged rocks (pH 6, temp 10ºC). DD-125, 18.04.2009, Khechiperi
Lake, Sikkim. In association with brownish wooly masses growing in water (pH
5 temp. 19ºC).
Indian distribution: Karnataka (Bharati 1965); Andhra Pradesh (Suxena &
Venkateswarlu 1968a); Maharashtra (Kamat 1968); Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
(Agarkar 1969); Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat 1975); Gujarat (Patel 1979);
Karnataka and Goa (Bharti & Hegde 1982); Rohilakhand, Uttar Pradesh
(Chaturvedi 1975); Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (Pandey et al. 1987); Hamirpur, Uttar
Pradesh (Habib & Chaturvedi 2007); Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh (Habib 2008);
Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh (Habib 2009); Kumayun Himalaya (Habib &Chaturvedi
2011); Karnataka (Venkateshwarlu et al. 2011); Dehradun, Uttarakhand (Habib
& Chaturvedi 2012).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
21. Closterium gracile Brébisson ex Ralfs var. tenue (Lemmermann) West et West
(West & GS West 1904, p. 168, pl. 21, f. 13; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 53, pl. 16, f.
7)
[Pl. XXIII, f. 388-392]
Cells medium sized, slender, narrow, 13-23 times longer than broad, slightly
curved (30-35º), almost straight for more than one-half of the length; margins
parallel, gradually narrowed and curved toward the apical region, poles obtuse;
chloroplast axial with 7 pyrenoids; cell wall smooth and colourless.
Length: 67-141 µm, Breadth: 3-7 µm, Apex: 1-3 µm.
Collection No. DD-380, 06.11.2009 Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green scum in a swamp (pH 6, temp. 10ºC). DD-27, 16.04.2009, Pelling.
With phytoplankton samples collected from a small Lake (pH 5, temp 21ºC).
DD-489, Khechiperi Lake, Sikkim. In association with green filaments growing
attached on pebbles & submerged weeds (pH 6, temp 14ºC).
SYSTEMATIC PART
87
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
22. Closterium incurvum Brébisson var. incurvum
(West & GS West 1904, p. 136, pl. 15, f. 28-30; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 53, pl. 36,
f. 5, 6; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 40, pl. 2, f. 22-24)
[pl. XVIII, f. 339, 340]
Cells small, 6-7 times longer than broad, strongly curved, 173°of arc, ventral
margin not inflated, strongly attenuated to the apical region, the poles acutely
rounded; chloroplast axial plate with single pyrenoid in each; cell wall smooth
and colourless.
Length: 61-66 µm, Breadth: 9-11 µm, Apex: 1-4 µm.
The present specimen appears an intermediate form between Cl. incurvum
Brébisson & Cl. venus Kützing ex Ralfs since the arc is 172º. Krieger (1937)
considered Cl. incurvum Brébisson synonymous with Cl. venus Kützing ex Ralfs
but Prescott (1975) considered it as a separate species. Since the present form
appears closer in morphology to Cl. incurvum Brébisson it has been considered
here but it differs slightly from the type in certain respect,
1. Little less angle of arc
2. Presence of single pyrenoid in each semicell.
Collection No. DD-416, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with Brownish scum attached to the surface of the submerged parts of the semi-
aquatic plants (pH 6, temp 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Karnataka (Bharati 1965);
Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat 1975); Kashmir (Compère 1983); Basti, Uttar
Pradesh (Misra et al. 2001); Bihar (Kumar & Chaudhary 2009); Eastern
Himalaya (Yasmin et al. 2011).
23. Closterium incurvum Brébisson forma 1
[Pl. XIX, f. 350]
Cells small, 5-7 times longer than broad, strongly curved, but less than the
typical, 168°of arc, both the dorsal and ventral margins similarly curved,
attenuated to the apex; apex acutely pointed; cell wall smooth and colourless;
chloroplast axial plate with several pyrenoids.
SYSTEMATIC PART
88
Length: 46-51 µm, Breadth: 8-9 µm, Apex: 3-5 µm.
Present taxon very much similar to the typical but differs in,
1. Cell less curved
2. Apex acutely pointed.
Collection No. DD-380, 06.11.2009 Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green scum in a swamp (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
24. Closterium incurvum Brébisson forma 2
[Pl. XXIII, f. 394, 395]
Cells small, narrow, 10-13 times longer than broad, strongly curved, but much
less than the type, 147°of arc; both the dorsal and ventral margins equally curved,
attenuated to the apex; poles strongly pointed; cell wall smooth and colourless.
Length: 39-42 µm, Breadth: 3-4 µm, Apex: 1-2 µm.
Present taxon very much similar to the typical but differs in,
1. Cell less curved
2. Cells less broad, narrower.
Collection No. DD-414, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filamentous mass attached to the surface of the submerged aquatic
plants (pH 6, temp 10ºC).
25. Closterium kuetzingii Brébisson var. kuetzingii
(West & GS West 1904, p. 186, p. 25, f. 6-11; Krieger 1937, p. 351, pl. 32, f. 8,
9; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 57, pl. 31, f. 6, 7, 15; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 42, pl. 6, f.
7)
[Pl. IX, f. 270, 271]
Cells long, 48-52 times longer than broad, almost a straight, curvature 40° arc;
only apex slightly incurved, the midregion fusiform-lanceolate, the dorsal and
ventral margins about equally convex, attenuated abruptly toward the apical
margins to form setaceous processes, the poles rounded and often slightly
inflated, with an inner wall thickening; cell wall brownish yellow, striated, 10
striae in 10 µm.
Length: 471-508 µm, Breadth: 9-19 µm, Apex: 3-7 µm.
SYSTEMATIC PART
89
Collection No. DD-382, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filamentous mass attached to the surface of the submerged aquatic
plants (pH 6, temp 10ºC). DD-584, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association
with greenish scum with wet mosses growing on soil (pH 6.5, temp. 15ºC). DD-
717, 01.05.2010, Kalimpong. With phytoplankton sample collected from a small
waterbody (pH 6.5, temp. 25ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Kodaikanal, Tamilnadu
(Iyengar & Vimla Bai 1941; Singh & Balasingh 2011); Maharashtra (Bharati
1965a; Kamat 1968a); Andhra Pradesh (Suxena & Venkateswarlu 1968a); Simla,
Himachal Pradesh (Kamat 1968b); Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar 1971; Agarkar &
Agarker 1973); Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat 1975); Gujarat (Patel 1979);
Allahabad (Pandey & Pandey 1980a); Karnataka and Goa (Bharti & Hegde
1982); Savandurga, Karnataka (Gurudeva et al. 1983); Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh
(Pandey et al. 1987); Muriyad, Kerala (Sanilkumar & Thomas 2006); Hamirpur,
Uttar Pradesh (Habib & Chaturvedi 2007); Uttarakhand (Misra et al. 2008); Bihar
(Kumar & Chaudhary 2009); Goalpara, Assam (Deca et al. 2011); Eastern
Himalaya (Yasmin et al. 2011).
26. Closterium libellula Focke ex Nordstedt var. libellula f. libellula
(Krieger 1937, p. 254, pl. 12, f. 1, 2; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 607, pl. 12, f. 12)
[Pl. XVI, f. 319, 320]
Cells small, 4-4.5 times longer than broad, straight, 18˚ of arc, attenuated from
the midregion to broadly truncate poles; poles broadly rounded; cell wall smooth;
chloroplast with 10 longitudinal ridges with 2-4 pyrenoids in each; terminal
vacuoles with several small granules.
Length: 117-140 µm, Breadth: 26-28 µm, Apex: 6-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-129, 18.04.2009, Khechiperi Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filaments growing attached on pebbles & submerged weeds (pH 6.5,
Temp. 14°C).
Indian distribution: East India (Turner 1892); Kodaikanal, South India (Iyenger
& Vimla Bai 1941; Bharati & Pai 1972); West Bengal (Roy 1955); Pakhal Lake,
Andhra Pradesh (Suxena & Venkateswarlu 1966a); Mount Abu, Rajasthan
(Kamat 1967); Vidyan Region, Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar & Agarkar, 1972);
SYSTEMATIC PART
90
Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat 1975); Pachmari, Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar &
Agarkar 1977); Marathwada, Maharashtra (Asthekar & Kamat 1979); Kerala
(Sindhu & Panikkar 1995a).
This is also a fairly common species but sometimes confused with Netrium. This
is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
27. Closterium libellula Focke ex Nordstedt var. intermedium (Roy et Bissett) GS
West
(Krieger 1937, p. 255, pl. 12, f. 3-5; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 61, pl. 12, f. 1, 2)
[Pl. XVII, f. 326, 327]
Cells small, 4-5 times longer than broad, straight, curvature 27° of arc; both
margins concave at the midregion and gradually truncate poles; chloroplast axial;
cell wall smooth and colourless.
Length: 126-129 µm, Breadth: 25-28 µm, Apex: 6-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-578, Sungure, Sikkim. In association with wet mosses as
brown powdery masses from rock wall (pH 6, temp 17ºC).
Indian distribution: Andhra Pradesh (Suxena & Venkateswarlu 1968b);
Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar 1971); Gujarat (Patel 1979); Allahabad
(Pandey & Pandey 1980); Karnataka and Goa (Bharti & Hegde 1982a); Bareilly,
Uttar Pradesh (Pandey et al. 1987); Gangtok, Sikkim (Prasad & Misra 1987);
Kalimpong (Santra & Pal 2006).
28. Closterium libellula Focke ex Nordstedt var. sikkimense var. nov.
[Pl. XVI, f. 314, 315]
Cells straight, 9-10 times longer than broad, straight, 34° of arc; midregion
slightly elevated angularly, gradually attenuated to broadly rounded poles; cell
wall smooth and colourless; chloroplast 2 parted, having 6 longitudinal ridges
with 6-8 pyrenoids,.
Length: 170-180 µm, Breadth: 18-20 µm, Apex: 5-6 µm.
Our species differ from typical and all other existing varieties by,
1. Angular median region
2. Smaller in dimension.
These forms appear intergrading among Penium, Netrium & Closterium.
SYSTEMATIC PART
91
Holotype No. DD-382, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filamentous mass attached to the surface of the submerged aquatic
plants (pH 6, temp 10ºC). Kept in the algae herbarium, Department of Botany,
The University of Burdwan (BURD).
29. Closterium littorale Gay var. indicum var. nov.
[Pl. XVI, f. 318]
Cells medium sized, 4-6 times longer than broad, stouter than the typical, slightly
curved, 53° of arc; ventral margin slightly swollen in the midregion forming
somewhat angularly elevated portion, dorsal margin convex, uniformly
attenuated to the apex; poles rounded with slight invagination; cell wall smooth
and colourless; chloroplast not ridged.
Length: 129-135 µm, Breadth: 21-28 µm, Apex: 4-6 µm.
Present species resembles much to the Cl. littorale Gay var. littorale but differs:
1. Stouter
2. Apex invaginated
3. Chloroplast not ridged
4. Midregion angularly elevated.
The present variety also resembles C. arcuarium Hughes but differs in
1. Less curved
2. Less longer
3. Apex broader
4. Apex invaginated
5. Chloroplast not ridged.
Holotype No. DD-416, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with brownish scum attached to the surface of the submerged part of the semi-
aquatic plants (pH 6, temp 10ºC). Kept in the algae herbarium, Department of
Botany, The University of Burdwan (BURD).
30. Closterium lunula (Müller) Nitzsch ex Ralfs var. lunula f. lunula
(West & GS West 1904, p. 150, pl. 18, f. 8, 9; Krieger 1937, p. 301, pl. 21, f. 1,
pl. 22, f. 1; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 65, pl. 14, f. 3-5)
[Pl. XIX, f. 348]
SYSTEMATIC PART
92
Cells moderately large, 4-6 times longer than broad, almost straight, 45° of arc;
dorsal wall more curved than the ventral; ventral wall slightly concave in the
median section, gradually narrowed to the apical region forming broadly rounded
poles; chloroplast axial plate; cell wall smooth & colourless.
Length: 200-259 µm, Breadth: 34-55 µm, Apex: 3-5 µm.
Collection No. DD-79, 17.04.2009, Pelling, Sikkim. In association with bluish
green slimy mass growing in a drain (pH 5.5, temp 26ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Savandurga, Karnataka
(Gurudeva et al. 1983); Andhra Pradesh (Sarojini 1996); Maharashtra (Nandan &
Jain 2004); Gomti river (Kumar & Suseela 2004); Uttaranchal (Misra et al.
2009); Karnataka (Venkateshwarlu et al. 2011); Goalpara, Assam (Deca et al.
2011).
31. Closterium lunula (Müller) Nitzsch ex Ralfs var. lunula f. minor West et GS
West
(West & GS West 1904, p. 151; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 66, pl. 14, f. 1, 2)
[Pl. X, f. 272, 273]
Cells large, 5-6 times longer than broad, stout, slightly curved, 54° of arc; ventral
margin very slightly convex, dorsal wall much more curved than the ventral,
gradually narrowed to the poles, apex truncately rounded; cell wall smooth,
slightly yellow in colour; chloroplast with numerous scattered pyrenoids.
Length: 307-316 µm, Breadth: 55-58 µm, Apex: 6-11 µm.
Collection No. DD-380, 06.11.2009 Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green scum in a swamp (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
32. Closterium mamenchoenum sp. nov.
[Pl. X, f. 274; pl. XI, f. 275]
Cells elongate, 9-10 times longer than broad, almost straight, 53° of arc; median
region straight, not swollen, gradually and uniformly attenuated to the poles;
apex broadly rounded with somewhat swollen; cell wall brownish in colour,
striated, striae thick and prominent, 9-11 striae visible from one side; chloroplast
with 3-6 pyrenoids in a series.
SYSTEMATIC PART
93
Length: 345-348 µm, Breadth: 35-36 µm, Apex: 12-15 µm.
Present specimen is much similar to Cl. balmacarense Turner but differs from it
in several respects,
1. Cell wall striated
2. Angle of curvature greater
3. Apex rounded
4. Stouter, breadth of the cell greater.
Holotype No. DD-413, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with light greenish-yellow filaments attached on the surface of the wet rock (pH
6, temp. 10ºC). Kept in the algae herbarium, Department of Botany, The
University of Burdwan (BURD).
33. Closterium minutum Roll var. indicum var. nov.
[Pl. XIV, f. 294-296]
Cells small, moderately curved, but greater than the typical, 137° of arc, lunate;
both margins equally curved, slightly tapered to bluntly rounded poles;
chloroplast axial plate with 3-4 pyrenoids in series; cell wall smooth and
colourless.
Length: 52-78 µm, Breadth: 8-11 µm, Apex: 3-4 µm.
This specimen is very much similar to the Cl. minutum Roll var. minutum, but
differs from the typical and all other existing varieties by,
1. Greater angle of divergence
2. Longer dimension.
Holotype No. DD-415, DD-417, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In
association with greenish-brown scum attached to the surface of the wet rock (pH
6, temp. 10ºC). Kept in the algae herbarium, Department of Botany, The
University of Burdwan (BURD).
34. Closterium moniliferum Ehrenberg ex Ralfs var. moniliferum
(West & GS West 1904, p. 142, pl. 16, f. 15, 16; Krieger 1937, pl. 18, f. 6, 7;
Prescott et al. 1975, p. 70, pl. 21, f. 3; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 45, pl. 3, f. 11)
[Pl. XIX, f. 349]
SYSTEMATIC PART
94
Cells medium sized, 6-7 times longer than broad, curved, angles of curvature
135° of arc, stout; the outer wall strongly concave and the ventral one somewhat
straight in the midregion, uniformly attenuated to broadly rounded poles;
chloroplast with 6 longitudinal ridges and 3-5 axial pyrenoids in each; cell wall
smooth and colourless.
Length: 264-268 µm, Breadth: 41-44 µm, Apex: 7-8 µm.
Collection No. DD-510, 10.11.2009, Changey falls, Sikkim. In association
withscum on wet rocks beside the falls (pH 6, temp 14ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Assam (Brühl & Biswas
1926); Gujarat (Kamat 1962; Patel 1979); Maharashtra (Kamat 1963; Bharati
1965a); Kashmir (Suxena & Venkateswarlu 1968b); Andhra Pradesh (Suxena &
Venkateswarlu 1968c); Rajasthan (Patel & Rao 1975); Uttar Pradesh (Prasad &
Mehrotra 1977b); Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh (Pandey & Pandey 1980);
Savandurga, Karnataka (Gurudeva et al. 1983); Kashmir (Compère 1983);
Madhya (Misra et al. 2008); Jalgaon, North Maharashtra (Mahajan & Nandan
2008); Gangtok, Sikkim (Prasad & Misra 1987).
35. Closterium moniliferum Ehrenberg ex Ralfs var. submoniliferum (Woronichin)
Krieger
(Krieger 1937, p. 292, pl. 18, f. 10; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 71, pl. 21, f. 1)
[Pl. XV, f. 306, 307]
Cells large, 5-7 times longer than broad, moderately curved, 91° of arc, stout; the
outer wall strongly curved, the ventral wall somewhat inflated in the midregion,
uniformly attenuated to broadly rounded poles; chloroplast axial with several
scattered pyrenoids; cell wall smooth and colourless.
Length: 278-299 µm, Breadth: 45-51µm, Apex: 7-9 µm.
Collection No. DD-358, Bulbulay, Sikkim. With phytoplankton samples
collected from a rock pool (pH 6, temp 17ºC). DD-194, 19.04.2009, Yoksum,
Sikkim. In association with greenish filaments in a swamp.
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
36. Closterium navicula (Brébisson) Lutkemuller var. navicula
SYSTEMATIC PART
95
(Krieger 1937, p. 257, pl. 12, f. 8-10; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 71, pl. 12, f. 3, 7;
Lenzenweger 1996, p. 45, pl. 3, f. 11)
[Pl. XIV, f. 304]
Cells short, 3-4 times longer than broad, fusiform, not much curved, 78° of arc;
both margins concave, gradually attenuated to broadly rounded apices;
chloroplast having 8 longitudinal ridges with few pyrenoids; terminal vacuole
with granules.
Length: 113-116 µm, Breadth: 35-38 µm, Apex: 6-7 µm.
Present specimen is slightly larger than the type.
Collection No. DD-578, 10.11.2009, Sungure, Sikkim. In association with
phytoplankton lodged in wet mosses growing in a drain (pH 6, temp 16ºC).
Indian distribution: Maharashtra (Bharati 1965a); Andhra Pradesh (Suxena &
Venkateswarlu 1968a); Kashmir (Suxena & Venkateswarlu 1968b); Gwalior,
Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar 1971); Gujarat (Patel 1979); Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh
(Pandey et al. 1987); Kerala (Shaji et al. 1988); Goalpara, Assam (Deca et al.
2011).
37. Closterium parvulum Nageli var. parvulum
(West & GS West 1904, p. 133, pl. 15, f. 9-12; Krieger 1937, p. 275, pl. 16, f. 14-
17; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 73, pl. 24, f. 18-20)
[Pl. XIV, f. 302, 303]
Cells medium sized, 6-7 times longer than broad, moderately curved, 127° of arc;
ventral wall straight at the midregion then gradually curved to the apex, dorsal
margin moderately convex, gradually attenuated to the apex, apex acutely
rounded; cell wall smooth and colourless; chloroplast with 3 axial pyrenoids.
Length: 114-120 µm, Breadth: 17-18 µm, Apex: 3-5 µm.
Collection No. DD-380, 06.11.2009 Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green scum in a swamp (pH 6, temp. 10ºC). DD-728, 02.05.2010, Mach
pokhri, West Bengal. With phytoplankton sample collected from the waterbody
(pH 6.5, temp. 22ºC).
Indian distribution: Assam (Brühl & Biswas 1926); Maharashtra (Kamat 1963;
Bharati 1965a); Karnataka (Bharati 1965b); Andhra Pradesh (Suxena &
Venkateswarlu 1968c); Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar 1969); Gujarat (Patel
SYSTEMATIC PART
96
1979); Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat 1975); Savandurga, Karnataka (Gurudeva
et al. 1983); Kashmir (Compère 1983); Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (Pandey et al.
1987); Nagpur, Maharashtra (Tarar et al. 1998); Ranchi (Guru 2007);
Kanyakumari (Balasingh & Shamal 2007); Jalgaon, North Maharashtra (Mahajan
& Nandan 2008); Tamil Nadu (Senthilkumar & Sivakumar 2008); Kodaikanal,
Tamilnadu (Singh & Balasingh 2011); Karnataka (Venkateshwarlu et al. 2011);
Goalpara, Assam (Deca et al. 2011).
38. Closterium parvulum Nageli forma
[Pl. XVIII, f. 344, 345]
Cells small, 8-9 times longer than broad, moderately curved, 104° of curvature;
ventral wall slightly concave in the midregion, then curved toward the poles,
apex sharply rounded; cell wall with smooth and colourless; chloroplast with 2-3
pyrenoids.
Length: 120-124 µm, Breadth: 9-11 µm, Apex: 3-5 µm.
Our specimen differs from the typical in following,
1. Less curved
2. Breadth is less.
Collection No. DD-389, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with light green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp 10ºC).
39. Closterium parvulum Nageli var. maius West
(Krieger 1937, pl. 16, f. 18; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 74, pl. 24, f. 1)
[Pl. XXII, f. 376, 377]
Cells large, 10-12 times longer than broad, strongly curved, 160° of arc, ventral
margin slightly concave in the midregion, gradually attenuated to the apical
region, the poles sharply rounded with slight inner thickening of the wall;
chloroplast axial with 5 pyrenoids in each; cell wall smooth and colourless.
Length: 187-318 µm, Breadth: 14-30 µm, Apex: 2-5 µm.
Collection No. DD-583, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with
greenish-brown scum with mosses on a small rock pool (pH 6.5, temp. 14ºC).
DD-757, Lava, West Bengal. In association with wet mosses growing on the
surface of the soil (pH 6, temp. 16ºC).
SYSTEMATIC PART
97
Indian distribution: Goalpara, Assam (Deca et al. 2011).
40. Closterium parvulum Nageli var. obtusum Croasdale
(Prescott et al. 1975, p. 74, pl. 24, f. 3)
[Pl. XIV, f. 299, 300]
Cells small, 8-10 times longer than broad, moderately curved, curvature 115° of
arc; ventral wall concave in the midregion, gradually attenuated at the apical
region; the poles bluntly rounded; chloroplast axial with 3-5 pyrenoids; cell wall
smooth and colourless.
Length: 99-102 µm, Breadth: 10-12 µm, Apex: 3-4 µm.
Collection No. DD-379, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with deep green filamentous mass floating freely on the surface of water forming
bloom (pH 6, temp 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
41. Closterium planum Hughes
(Hughes 1952, p. 284, f. 34; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 75-76, pl.17, f. 17)
[Pl. XV, f. 308-311]
Cells elongate, 12-19 times longer than broad, slightly curved having 36-51° of
arc, pole truncated and slightly rounded; cell wall smooth brown in colour; outer
wall slightly more curved than the inner; girdle band present, sometimes not
evident; chloroplast with 6 longitudinal ridges and with 6 axial pyrenoids in each.
Length: 234-270 µm, Breadth: 16-20 µm, Apex: 5-8 µm.
Collection No. DD-415, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp 10ºC). DD-833,
12.11.2011, Chage falls, Lava. In association with blackish filament with moss
from decayed bark.
Indian distribution: Pakhal Lake, Andhra Pradesh (Suxena & Venkateswarlu,
1966a), Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar & Agarkar 1977); Mamencho Lake (Das &
Keshri 2012).
42. Closterium pritchardianum Archer var. pritchardianum f. attenuata Irénée-
Marie
SYSTEMATIC PART
98
(Prescott et al. 1975, p. 78, pl. 15, f. 12; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 48, pl. 4, f. 15)
[Pl. IX, f. 268]
Cells large, 6-7 times longer than broad; almost straight, 44° of arc; ventral
margin concave, dorsal margin more curved than the ventral, gradually
attenuated to narrowly rounded poles, apex re-curved; girdle band present;
chloroplast axial plate; cell wall with fine striae, regularly distributed all over the
cell wall.
Length: 377-382 µm, Breadth: 55-58 µm, Apex: 4-5 µm.
Collection No. DD-405, 06.11.2009, Changu Lake, Sikkim. In association with
dark green filament on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp 9ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
43. Closterium pseudocynthia sp. nov.
[Pl. XX, f. 365, 366]
Cells medium sized, 13-15 times longer than broad; moderately curved, 117° of
arc; both the ventral and dorsal margins are equally curved; median portion of the
ventral margin very slightly straight, gradually narrowed to the poles which is
sharply pointed; cell wall smooth and yellowish red in colour; girdle band present
in the midregion of the cell; chloroplast with 4 longitudinal ridges having 5-6
pyrenoids in axial series; terminal vacuoles with 4-5 granules.
Length: 193-196 µm, Breadth: 13-15 µm, Apex: 1-2 µm.
Present taxa resembles very much to the Cl. cynthia De Notoris, but differs in:
1. Absence of vertical striations
2. Poles distinctly pointed
3. Greater L/B ratio
4. Terminal vacuoles with vertical granules.
Holotype No. DD-17, 16.04.2009, Pelling, Sikkim. In association with deep
green slimy filaments on the margin of a water body (pH 5, temp 19ºC). Kept in
the algae herbarium, Department of Botany, The University of Burdwan
(BURD).
44. Closterium pseudoincurvum sp. nov.
[Pl. XXII, f. 382, 383]
SYSTEMATIC PART
99
Cell small, 7-9 times longer than broad, strongly curved, 156° of arc; dorsal
margin strongly convex but median portion of ventral margin nearly straight;
midregion slightly inflated, strongly narrowed to the apical region forming
acutely pointed poles; girdle band present in the midregion, cell wall otherwise
smooth and colourless; chloroplast axial plate.
Length: 52-55 µm, Breadth: 6-7 µm, Apex: 1-2 µm.
Present taxon mush resembles Cl. incurvum Brébisson but differs in,
1. Apex abruptly attenuated to slender points
2. Mid region of ventral margin more or less straight
3. Girdle band present.
Also similar to Cl. acutum Brébisson but differs in,
1. Midregion thick with ventral side more or less straight
2. Higher angle of arc
3. Transverse girdle present.
Holotype No. DD-420, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with light green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp 10ºC). Kept in
the algae herbarium, Department of Botany, The University of Burdwan
(BURD).
45. Closterium pseudolunula Borge
(Krieger 1937, p. 305, pl. 22, f. 3; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 79, pl. 19, f. 15;
Lenzenweger 1996, p. 48, pl. 4, f. 1)
[Pl. XVIII, f. 332-335]
Cells medium sized, 6-10 times longer than broad; moderately curved, 44-75°
angle of arc; the dorsal margin convex, the ventral margin straight for more than
two third of the length; apex broadly rounded; chloroplast axial with 4-5
pyrenoids in each; cell wall smooth and colourless.
Length: 204-258 µm, Breadth: 23-31 µm, Apex: 4-11 µm.
One of the specimens differs in,
1. Chloroplast not ridged
2. No terminal vacuoles present
3. Apex broader.
SYSTEMATIC PART
100
Collection No. DD-415, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with greenish-brown scum on the surface of the wet rock (pH 6, temp 10ºC). DD-
628, 04.05.2010, Gurudongmar Lake, Sikkim. In association with green filaments
on the wet rock beside the Lake (pH 6, temp 9ºC). DD-717, 01.05.2010,
Kalimpong. With phytoplankton sample collected from a small water body (pH
6.5, temp. 25ºC).
Indian distribution: Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar 1971); Gujarat (Patel
1979); Kashmir (Compère 1983); Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (Pandey & Habib
1987); Goalpara, Assam (Deca et al. 2011).
46. Closterium rectimarginatum Scott et Prescott
(Scott & Prescott 1961, p. 13, pl. 1, f. 27, 28; Ling & Tyler 1986, p. 18, pl. 5, f.
31)
[Pl. IX, f. 267]
Cells large, 7-8 times longer than broad; spindle shaped, straight, 32° of arc;
lateral margins almost straight, slightly convex, dorsal margin more curved than
the ventral, attenuated at the apex to form tuncately rounded poles; cell wall
smooth and colourless; chloroplast with axial series of several pyrenoids.
Length: 423-426 µm, Breadth: 56-58 µm, Apex: 9-10 µm.
Collection No. DD-379, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with deep green filamentous mass floating freely on the surface of water forming
bloom (pH 6, temp 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Gujarat (Patel 1979); Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (Pandey et al.
1987); Nagpur, Maharashtra (Tarar et al. 1998); Gomti river (Kumar & Suseela
2004); Hamirpur, Uttar Pradesh (Habib & Chaturvedi 2007); Uttarakhand (Misra
et al. 2008); Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh (Habib 2009); Kumayun Himalaya (Habib &
Chaturvedi 2011); Dehradun, Uttarakhand (Habib & Chaturvedi 2012).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
47. Closterium rectimarginatum forma
[Pl. XII, f. 283]
Cells medium sized, 6-7 times longer than broad; spindle shaped, straight, 40° of
arc; lateral margins almost straight, slightly convex, elevated, dorsal margin
SYSTEMATIC PART
101
slightly more curved than the ventral, attenuated at the apex to form acutely
rounded poles; cell wall smooth and colourless; chloroplast with 4-5 longitudinal
ridges having axial series of several pyrenoids.
Length: 215-219 µm, Breadth: 30-33 µm, Apex: 2-3 µm.
Present taxon differs from the typical having several characters, viz.
1. Cell dimension less
2. Apex acutely rounded.
Collection No. DD-405, 06.11.2009, Changu Lake, Sikkim. In association with
dark green filament on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 9ºC).
48. Closterium reticulatum sp. nov.
[Pl. XV, f. 305]
Cells medium sized, 8-9 times longer than broad, almost straight, 26° of arc; both
the margins equally convex in the midregion, then tapering to the poles; apex flat
with rounded angles; cell wall distinctly costate with vertical as well as
horizontal costae forming reticulate patterns; 4-6 prominent vertical costae in
face view, horizontal costae arranged in 5-6 series alternately forming the cell
wall several rectangular areas; cell wall otherwise smooth and colourless;
chloroplast axial plate filling the entire space of the cell.
Length: 297-300 µm, Breadth: 34-36 µm, Apex: 10-13 µm.
Present species resembles Netrium and certain species of Closterium such as Cl.
libellula Focke ex Nordstedt, Cl. costatum Corda ex Ralfs and few others but
distinctively differs from all the above in having vertical as well as transverse
costae forming a reticulate patterns.
Holotype No. DD-417, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with greenish-brown scum on the surface of the wet rock (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Kept in the algae herbarium, Department of Botany, The University of Burdwan
(BURD).
49. Closterium rostratum Ehrenberg ex Ralfs var. rostratum
(West & GS West 1904, p. 188, pl. 26, f. 1-5; Krieger 1937, p. 354, pl. 33, f. 1-3;
Prescott et al. 1975, p. 83, pl. 31, f. 3, 12; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 50, pl. 6, f. 9-10)
[Pl. XXIII, f. 384-386]
SYSTEMATIC PART
102
Cells long, 11-12 times longer than broad, slender, slightly curved, 42° of arc;
inflated and fusiform in the midregion, tapering abruptly to form rostrate
extensions in the apical region, the poles obliquely truncate; chloroplast axial
with 3-4 pyrenoids; cell wall smooth and light brown in colour.
Length: 249-297 µm, Breadth: 25-27 µm, Apex: 3-4 µm.
Collection No. DD-415, DD-416, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In
association with brownish wooly masses and green filaments on the wet surface
of the rocks (pH: 5.5, Temp. 10°C).
Indian distribution: Assam (Brühl & Biswas 1926; Biswas 1934); Kashmir
(Suxena & Venkateswarlu 1968b); Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar 1969; Agarkar &
Agarker 1972; Agarkar & Agarker 1977; Agarkar et al. 1979, Agarkar et al.
1983); Uttar Pradesh (Prasad & Mehrotra 1977b); Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh
(Pandey et al. 1987); Dhunti, Ranchi (Das and Purti 1990).
50. Closterium rostratum Ehrenberg ex Ralfs var. sikkimicum var. nov.
[Pl. XXII, f. 378, 379]
Cells stouter than the typical, 5-6 times longer than broad, slender, little curved,
63° of arc; midregion fusiform, tapering rather abruptly to form rostrate
extensions in the polar regions; apex obliquely truncate with an internal
thickening; cell wall slightly brownish in colour, striated, 8-9 striae in 10 µm;
chloroplast not prominent in this species found.
Length: 236-239 µm, Breadth: 42-45 µm, Apex: 4-5 µm.
Present species differs from typical and all other existing variety by,
1. Much stouter in size
2. Angle of curvature is more.
Holotype No. DD-417, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with greenish-brown scum on the surface of the wet rock (pH 6, temp 10ºC).
Kept in the algae herbarium, Department of Botany, The University of Burdwan
(BURD).
51. Closterium setaceum Ehrenberg ex Ralfs var. setaceum
SYSTEMATIC PART
103
(West & GS West 1904, p. 190, pl. 26, f. 9-13; Krieger 1937, p. 356, pl. 33, f. 8-
10; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 84, pl. 31, f. 1, 11; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 51, pl. 6, f.
8)
[Pl. XXI, f. 370, 371]
Cells long, 22-24 times longer than broad, almost straight, 21° of arc, fusiform in
the midregion, narrowed rather abruptly in the apical region to form rostrate,
colourless extensions with parallel margins; apices incurved which is slightly
inflated, poles truncately rounded; chloroplast with 2 pyrenoids; cell wall
colourless with fine striae, 11 striae in 10 µm.
Length: 408-413 µm, Breadth: 17-18 µm, Apex: 2-3 µm.
Collection No. DD-27, 16.04.2009, Pelling, Sikkim. With phytoplankton
samples collected from a small Lake (pH 5, temp 21ºC). DD-731, 02.05.2010,
Mach pokhri, West Bengal. With phytoplankton sample collected from the water
body (pH 6, temp. 22ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat
1975); Savandurga, Karnataka (Gurudeva et al. 1983); Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh
(Pandey & Habib 1987); Rohilkhand, Uttar Pradesh (Habib 1993); Pilibhit, Uttar
Pradesh (Habib 1997); Orissa (Jena et al. 2006); Ranchi (Guru 2007); Kolhapur,
Maharashtra (Leela et al. 2012).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
52. Closterium sikkimicum sp. nov.
[Pl. XXII, f. 380, 381]
Cells large, 18-20 times longer than broad, slender, almost straight, curvature is
much less, 37° of arc; lateral margins parallel and straight for more than one half
of the length then gradually attenuated toward the poles, apex truncate with
rounded angles; cell wall smooth and colourless; girdle bands present;
chloroplast with numerous pyrenoids in a series.
Length: 675-678 µm, Breadth: 34-36 µm, Apex: 13-16 µm.
Present specimen is intermediate between Cl. gracile Brébisson ex Ralfs & Cl.
abruptum West but differs from both in several respects. viz.
From Cl. gracile Brébisson ex Ralfs by
1. Dimension is much greater
SYSTEMATIC PART
104
2. Less slender, Length/Breadth ratio less.
From Cl. abruptum West by,
1. Angle of curvature is less
2. Cell dimension is much greater
3. More slender i.e. L/B ratio greater.
Holotype No. DD-396, 06.11.2009, Babamandir, Sikkim. In association with
scum with mosses on the rock under the stream. Kept in the algae herbarium,
Department of Botany, The University of Burdwan (BURD).
53. Closterium striolatum Ehrenberg ex Ralfs var. erectum Klebs
(Krieger 1937, p. 339, pl. 28, f. 12; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 88, pl. 27, f. 4, 8)
[Pl. XI, f. 276, 277]
Cells long, 8-13 times longer than broad, slightly curved, 44° of arc; ventral
margin straight in greater part of the length then slightly curved to the poles,
dorsal margin slightly convex, gradually attenuated to the apex, apex broadly
truncate, somewhat angularly incurved; cell wall slightly yellowish in colour and
striated, 6-7 striae in 10 µm; girdle bands present; chloroplast with 9 longitudinal
ridges and 6-7 pyrenoids in series.
Length: 378-407 µm, Breadth: 29-31 µm, Apex: 7-8 µm.
Collection No. DD-420, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with light green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
54. Closterium striolatum Ehrenberg ex Ralfs var. subdirectum (West) Krieger
(Prescott et al. 1975, p. 89, pl. 27, f. 2, 13)
[Pl. XXIII, f. 387]
Cells large, slender, 12-14 times longer than broad, slightly curved, curvature 46°
of arc; midregion with margins slightly inflated, gradually attenuated toward the
apical region which is somewhat incurved; the poles broadly rounded; cell wall
yellowish-brown in colour, striated, 9 striae in 10 µm; girdle bands evident.
Length: 431-438 µm. Breadth: 31-34 µm. Apex: 13-16 µm.
SYSTEMATIC PART
105
Collection No. DD-129, 18.04.2009, Khechiperi Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filaments growing attached on pebbles & submerged weeds (pH 6.5,
Temp. 14°C).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
55. Closterium striolatum Ehrenberg ex Ralfs var. subtruncatum (West et GS West)
Krieger
(Krieger 1937, p. 340, pl. 28, f. 10; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 89, pl. 27, f. 7;)
[Pl. XIV, f. 292, 293]
Cells elongate, 8-9 times longer than broad, slightly curved having 50-60° of arc,
the midregion with margins slightly inflated, gradually attenuated toward the
apical region which is somewhat incurved; apices slightly swollen, especially on
the dorsal wall, giving the cell a compressed appearance below the apices; cell
wall brownish with striations, 9-10 striae in 10 µm.
Length: 405-420 µm, Breadth: 46-50 µm, Apex: 10-11 µm.
Collection No. DD-417, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with greenish-brown scum on the surface of the wet rock (pH 6, temp 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Karnataka (Isaacs & Hegde 1987); Kollam, Kerala
(Panikkar & Krishnan 2005); Mamencho Lake (Das & Keshri 2012).
56. Closterium subcosticum Gutwinski
(Krieger 1937, p. 333, pl. 27, f. 10-12; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 53, pl. 4, f. 11)
[Pl. XIII, f. 290, 291]
Cells of medium sized, 9-11 times longer than broad, very slightly curved, 20° of
arc; dorsal margin slightly convex, ventral margins more or less straight,
attenuated to the apex forming rounded poles; girdle bands present, cell wall with
fine striations, 6-7 striations in 10 µm; chloroplast axial plate with 4-6 pyrenoids
in series.
Length: 161-164 µm, Breadth: 15-17 µm, Apex: 4-6 µm.
Collection No. DD-417, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with greenish-brown scum on the surface of the wet rock (pH 6, temp 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
SYSTEMATIC PART
106
57. Closterium subfusiforme Messikommer
(Prescott et al. 1975, p. 89, pl. 14, f. 9-11; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 52, pl. 4, f. 4)
[Pl. XX, f. 361, 362]
Cells medium sized, 6-7 times longer than broad, straight, 32° of arc, fusiform,
nearly equally curved on each margin, gradually tapered to truncate poles;
chloroplast with 4 longitudinal ridges having several pyrenoids in a series; cell
wall smooth and colourless.
Length: 175-178 µm, Breadth: 26-27 µm, Apex: 3-4 µm.
Collection No. DD-413 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filaments attached on the surface of the partially submerged rocks (pH
6, temp 10ºC). DD-17, 16.04.2009, Pelling, Sikkim. In association with slimy
deep green filaments on the margin of a water body (pH 5, temp 19ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
58. Closterium subjuncidiforme Gronblad
(Krieger 1937, p. 362, pl. 34, f. 10; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 90, pl. 29, f. 3, 3a, 3b)
[Pl. XI, f. 278, 279; pl. XII, F. 280-282]
Cells large, 10-11 times longer than broad, very slightly curved, 17° of arc,
slightly narrowed toward the apical region; the poles truncately rounded; cell
wall with girdle bands, brownish in colour, striated, 3 striae in 10 µm which is
sometimes spirally disposed.
Length: 362-455µm, Breadth: 20-41 µm, Apex: 6-21 µm.
Collection No. DD-382, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filamentous mass attached to the surface of the submerged aquatic
plants (pH 6, temp 10ºC). DD-396, 06.11.2009, Babamandir, Sikkim. In
association with mosses on the rocks under the stream (pH 6, temp. 10ºC). DD-
584, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with greenish scum with wet
mosses growing on soil (pH 6.5, temp. 15ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
59. Closterium tacomense Prescott
(Prescott et al. 1975, p. 91, pl. 19, f. 6, 9)
[Pl. XVII, f. 328, 329]
SYSTEMATIC PART
107
Cells medium sized, 7-9 times longer than broad, strongly curved, 152° of arc,
lunate; dorsal margin more curved than the ventral, very slightly tumid at the
midregion abruptly attenuated to the apical region to narrowly rounded poles; cell
wall smooth, colour reddish-brown; girdle bands present in the midregion;
chloroplast axial with 3 pyrenoids.
Length: 98-104 µm, Breadth: 11-14 µm, Apex: 4-5 µm.
Our species is much smaller in dimension than the type.
Collection No. DD-420, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
60. Closterium tumidulum Gay
(Prescott et al. 1975, p. 92, pl. 36, f. 1, 10; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 53, pl. 3, f. 18)
[Pl. XVIII, f. 346, 347]
Cells medium sized, 6-7 times longer than broad, strongly curved with 140°-
150° of arc; the dorsal wall strongly curved, the ventral margin inflated in the
midregion; poles acutely rounded; wall smooth, colourless; chloroplasts 2-3 with
longitudinal ridges with 2 pyrenoids in each placed in series.
Length: 120-149 µm, Breadth: 22-28 µm, Apex: 3-5 µm.
Collection No. DD-387, 06.11.2009, Betang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with light green filaments floating freely on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp.
10ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Andhra Pradesh (Suxena &
Venkateswarlu 1968a); Nainital (Kamat 1973a); Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat
1975); Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar & Agarkar 1977); Savandurga, Karnataka
(Gurudeva et al. 1983); River Cauvery (Somashekar 1984); Bareilly, Uttar
Pradesh (Pandey et al. 1987); Tamil Nadu (Senthilkumar & Sivakumar 2008);
Bihar (Kumar & Chaudhary 2009).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
61. Closterium tumidulum Gay forma
[Pl. XVI, f. 316, 317]
SYSTEMATIC PART
108
Cells medium sized, 7-9 times longer than broad, strongly curved, 156° of arc;
dorsal margins strongly convex, ventral margin with midregion very slightly
tumid, gradually attenuated to the apex forming rounded poles; cell wall smooth
and colourless; chloroplasts with 4 longitudinal ridges.
Length: 120-127 µm, Breadth: 14-17 µm, Apex: 3-5 µm.
Present species differs from the typical by,
1. Ventral margins less tumid
2. Poles rounded
3. Terminal vacuoles absent.
Collection No. DD-379, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with deep green filamentous mass floating freely on the surface of water forming
bloom (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
62. Closterium venus Kutzing ex Ralfs
(West & GS West 1904, p. 137, pl. 15, f. 15-20; Krieger 1937, p. 272, pl. 16, f. 1-
5; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 96, pl. 24, f. 5, 12; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 54, pl. 2, f.
25)
[Pl. XXI, f. 372, 373]
Cells small, 7-9 times longer than broad, strongly curved, 168° of arc; both the
dorsal and ventral margins strongly curved, not inflated in the midregion,
gradually attenuated towards the apex, apex acutely rounded; cell wall smooth
and colourless; chloroplast axial.
Length: 51-53 µm, Breadth: 6-7 µm, Apex: 1-2 µm.
Collection No. DD-31, 16.04.2009, Pelling, Sikkim. In association with blackish
mass on the rocky surface of the wall. DD-631, 04.05.2010, Gurudongmar Lake,
Sikkim. With phytoplankton sample collected from the Lake (pH 6, temp 9ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Assam (Brühl & Biswas
1926); Andhra Pradesh (Suxena & Venkateswarlu 1966b); Simla (Kamat 1968b);
Gujarat (Patel 1969); Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar 1969; Agarkar & Agarker 1973);
Nainital (Kamat 1973a); Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat 1975); Gujarat (Patel
1979); Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh (Pandey & Pandey 1980); Karnataka and Goa
(Bharti & Hegde 1982a); Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (Pandey et al. 1987); Kerala
(Shaji et al. 1988); Bombay, Maharashtra (Schmidle 1990; Gonzalves & Joshi
SYSTEMATIC PART
109
1946; Kamat 1963, 1968); Pithoragarh (Chaturvedi & Habib 1993); Nagpur,
Maharashtra (Tarar et al. 1998); Shillong, Meghalaya (Gupta 2002); Ranchi
(Guru 2007); Hamirpur, Uttar Pradesh (Habib & Chaturvedi 2007); Sitapur, Uttar
Pradesh (Habib 2008a); Uttarakhand (Misra et al. 2008); Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh
(Habib 2009); Kumayun Himalaya (Habib & Chaturvedi 2011); Dehradun,
Uttarakhand (Habib & Chaturvedi 2012).
This is a fairly common species of Closterium in India.
63. Closterium venus Kutzing ex Ralfs var. venus f. minor Roll
(Prescott et al. 1975, p. 96, pl. 24, f. 16)
[Pl. XXI, f. 374, 375]
Cells small, 6-7 times longer than broad, strongly curved, 142° of arc; the dorsal
margin convex, ventral wall slightly more curved, concave, gradually attenuated
toward the apical region, poles acutely rounded; chloroplast axial with 2
pyrenoids in each; cell wall colourless and smooth.
Length: 34-37 µm, Breadth: 5-6 µm, Apex: 1-2 µm.
No. DD-583, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with greenish-brown
scum with mosses on a small rock pool (pH 6.5, temp. 14ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
64. Closterium venus Kutzing var. crassum Croasdale
(Prescott et al. 1975, p. 97, pl. 24, f. 15)
[Pl. XIV, f. 301]
Cells moderate in size than the typical, 6-8 times longer than broad, slightly
stouter and strongly curved, 177° of arc; both the ventral and dorsal margins are
equally curved; apex attenuated; cell wall smooth and colourless; chloroplast
axial with single median pyrenoids.
Length: 70-73 µm, Breadth: 9-11 µm, Apex: 2-3 µm.
Collection No. DD-417, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with greenish-brown scum on the surface of the wet rock (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (Pandey et al. 1988); Lakhimpur-
Kheri, Uttar Pradesh (Habib 1995).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
SYSTEMATIC PART
110
IV. Cosmarium Corda ex Ralfs
Cells solitary, small to large in size, elongate, circular, semicircular, sub-semicircular
ellipsoidal, rectangular, elongate-circular or elongate-semicircular in shape in face
view, circular, oval or elliptic in vertical view; cells with shallow to deep median
constriction or sinus at the isthmus region; sinus may be deep or shallow, closed,
linear or open that may be angularly or widely dilated; semicells variously shaped,
that may be circular, semicircular, sub-semicircular, ellipsoidal, elliptic-reniform,
transversely elliptic, obliquely elliptical, rectangular, quadrangular, trapiziform,
pentagonal, hexagonal, elongate-circular or elongate-semicircular, cylindrical, sub-
cylindrical, elongate-cylindric, pyramidal, sub-pyramidal etc.; lateral margins may be
entire, undulate, crenulate, papillate, verrucate or conical teethed; cell wall may be
smooth or punctate, sometimes granulate, scrobiculate or verrucate; wall ornamented
either entirely or to restricted parts; cell apex may be broad or narrow, rounded, flat,
retuse or convex; face of the semicells smooth or variously ornamented, one or two
median protrusions may be present, sometimes with several types of thickenings or
granules arranged in various pattern; chloroplast axial, sometimes with longitudinal
ridges or radiating lobes, single or double in each semicells with one or two
pyrenoids; nucleus single, present at the middle portion of the cell.
Key to the taxa investigated:
For convenience the investigated taxa have been grouped into following groups:
A. Semicells circular or semicircular or sub-semicircular in outline
B. Semicells cylindrical, elongate-cylindrical or sub-cylindrical in outline
C. Semicells pyramidal or sub-pyramidal in outline
D. Semicells transversely or obliquely elliptical or reniform
E. Semicells rectangular, sub-rectangular, trapiziform or quadrangular in outline
F. Semicells hexagonal or polygonal in outline
SYSTEMATIC PART
111
A. Semicells circular or semicircular or sub-semicircular in outline
1. Cell wall smooth or punctate, not granulate, margins may be undulate
2. Semicells circular in outline
3. Median constriction deep, isthmus at least half or less than that of maximum
width of the cell
4. Cell small, 17-19 µm in length……...…………………….(35) C. moniliforme
4. Cells relatively larger, 60-63 µm in length..……….(36) C. moniliforme forma
3. Median constriction rather shallow, isthmus about one tenth than that of
maximum width of the cell
5. Semicells sub-circular in outline…….……..…(7) C. connatum var. connatum
5. Semicells transversely more elliptic…..……..(8) C. connatum var. depressum
2. Semicells semi-circular or sub-semicircular in outline
6. Outer margin of the semicells entire
7. Basal angles with sub-mamillate thickening
8. Apex thickened, wall smooth………………………….…...…(40) C. nudum
8. Apex not thickened, wall punctate
9. Sinus deep, closed, pores irregular……...………………(41) C. obsoletum
9. Sinus shallow, widely open, pores in vertical rows
…...…(54) C. pseudo-obsoletum sp. nov.
7. Basal angles without any thickenings, smooth
10. Semicells semicircular-cylindrical, cells more than 1.5 times longer than
broad……………………………………………………(68) C. subcucumis
10. Semicells semicircular or very slightly elongate, cells less than 1.5 times
SYSTEMATIC PART
112
longer than broad
11. Sinus dilate at the extremities, pores distinct
………….(33) C. lundelli var. ellipticum
11. Sinus not dilated, finely porous…..………..……….(73) C. transitorium
6. Outer margin of the semicells undulate
12. Cells large in size, length more than 50 µm. long, isthmus very deep, about
1/5th
than the maximum width of the cell…...….………..…(75) C. tyloricum
12. Cells relatively smaller, length less than 50 µm. long, isthmus not very deep,
about 1/2- 1/3 than the maximum width of the cell
13. Cells slightly elongate, about 1.5 times longer than broad, undulations
distinct…………………....(76) C. undulatum var. alaskanum f. reductum
13. Cells not elongate, about 1.2 times longer than broad, undulations faint
14. Semicells more than 30 µm. long, undulations 18-20 per semicells
…………...(79) C. undulatum var. wollei
14. Semicells less than 30 µm. long, undulations 9-10 per semicells
….…….(78) C. undulatum var. minutum
1. Cell wall granulate, verrucate, papillate or crenulate at the margins or on the face of
the semicells
15. Semicels circular in outline……………………………(47) C. portianum forma
15. Semicells of other shape, either semicircular or sub-semicircular
16. Apex broadly truncate
17. Lateral walls with sharp granules…...……………..(67) C. subcrenatum
17. Lateral walls with undulations
18. Cell dimension large, more than 50 µm. long, another series of
undulations just below the apex, face of the semicells smooth
SYSTEMATIC PART
113
…………..(11) C. cyclicum var. crassum
18. Cell dimension small, less than 50 µm. long, face of the semicells
with concentric series of undulations…………….…(80) C.vittanum
16. Apex broadly rounded
19. Semicells semicircular-elliptic, sinus shallow, open, cell wall covered
with wooly hairs………..…...……………...(65) C. sikkimicum sp. nov.
19. Semicells semicircular, sinus deep, closed, cell wall with either teeth or
undulations, not hairs
20. Lateral walls with undulations
…...(77) C. undulatum var. indicum var. nov.
20. Lateral walls with teeth or crenulations
21. Lateral walls with broad crenations, face of the semicells with
specialized thickenings…………….……..…(10) C. cycladatum
21. Lateral walls with short teeth, face os the semicells without any
thickenings, smooth………………....(81) C. yoksomum sp. nov.
B. Semicells cylindrical, elongate-cylindrical or subcylindrical in outline:
1. Cell wall smooth or punctate, not granulate
2. Isthmus shallow with notched extremities, apex flat with rounded angles, wall
smooth………………...…………(32) C. longicylindricum var. indicum var. nov.
2. Isthmus deeper with dilate extremities, apex broadly rounded, cell wall porous
...………..(51) C. pseudodebaryi sp. nov.
1. Cell wall granulate
3. Median constriction a linear ‘V’ shaped notch…(1) C. amoenum var. intumescens
3. Median constriction very shallow
SYSTEMATIC PART
114
4. Cells narrow, slender, more than 2.5 times longer than broad
………………….(49) C. pseudamoenum
4. Cells relatively broad and stout, less than 2.5 times longer than broad
…(6) C. cohnii (Nob.) Keshri et Das comb. nov.
C. Semicells pyramidal or sub-pyramidal in outline:
1. Cell wall smooth or punctate, margins may be undulate but not granulate or crenate
2. Cell wall smooth, not punctate
3. Margins of the semicells undulate
4. Entire margin of the semicells undulate including the apex
5. Sinus deep, closed, cells stout, less than 1.3 times longer than broad
…………………….(38) C. naegelianum
5. Sinus shallow, open notch, slightly longer, more than 1.3 times longer than
broad………………………………….……………….…(31) C. levinotabile
4. Apex not undulate, may be retuse or flat
6. Apex flat
7. Cell dimension small, sinus not dilated at the apex
…….(19) C. garrolense f. dimidio-minus
7. Cells slightly longer, sinus dilated at the apex……..…..(18) C. garrolense
6. Apex retuse
8. Cells broader, less than 1.3 times longer than broad
…………...(20) C. garrolense var. minus
8. Cells relatively larger, more than 1.3 times longer than broad
9. Lateral margins of the semicells nearly straight at the lower part, then
attenuate to the apex…….....…….(27) C. impressulum var. impressulum
SYSTEMATIC PART
115
9. Lateral margins of the semicells not straight rather convex, then
attenuate to the apex……...…(28) C. impressulum var. suborthrogonum
3. Margin of the semicells entire, not undulate
10. Lateral walls straight or rarely slightly convex
11. Apex flat, basal angles narrowly rounded, sinus open..…(39) C. nitidulum
11. Apex broadly rounded, basal angles broad, sinus closed
………...(53) C. pseudolundellii sp. nov.
10. Lateral walls not straight
12. Apex retuse
13. Semicells with 2 pyrenoids, cells greater than 50 µm
…..(2) C. angulatum var. angulatum f. major
13. Semicells with single pyrenoid, length less than 50 µm
…..…(23) C. granatum var. subangulare
12. Apex flat, not retuse
14. Cell apex broad, more than half the maximum breadth of the cell, cell
more than 30 µm long………..…….(25) C. hammeri var. protuberans
14. Cell apex narrower, less than half the maximum breadth of the cell,
cell less than 30 µm long
15. Apical lateral angles sharply pointed
16. Cells larger, more than 25 µm long
………….(24) C. hammeri var. hammeri
16. Cells smaller, less than 25 µm long….……..…(63) C.retusiforme
15. Apical lateral angles rounded
17. Lateral walls almost straight, very slightly retuse, apex narrow
………………...…...…(21) C. granatum
SYSTEMATIC PART
116
17. Lateral walls distinctly concave, apex broader
………...(26) C. hammeri var. schmedlei
2. Cell wall punctate
18. Apex flat or retuse
19. Cells small, length less than 50 µm.
20. Apex narrow, lateral walls convex
21. Apex retuse, pores minute……….…….(30) C. laeve var. octangulare
21. Apex flat, pores large……………….(22) C. granatum var. elongatum
20. Apex broad, upper portion of lateral walls retuse…...(74) C. trilobulatum
19. Cells large, length more than 50 µm.
22. Sinus shallow, open………...(56) C. pyramidatum var. indicum var. nov.
22. Sinus deep, closed
23. Lateral walls smooth, sinus not dilated
….….(17) C. galeritum var. subtumidum
23. Lateral walls undulate, sinus dilated…...……...(12) C. cymatopleurum
18. Apex broadly rounded
24. Cells longer, above 1.5 times longer than broad, length more than 100 µm
25. Highest breadth at the base of the semicells, pores minute
……………………(43) C. pakistanicum
25. Highest breadth just above the base of the semicells, pores larger
……...……………......(29) C. javanicum
24. Cells relatively smaller, below 1.5 times longer than broad, length less than
100 µm
26. Isthmus deep, about 1/3 times than the maximum breadth of the cell,
SYSTEMATIC PART
117
sinus closed but open outwardly, punctae irregular…(71) C. subtumidum
26. Isthmus shallow, less than 1/3 times than the maximum breadth of the
cell, sinus entirely closed, punctae arranged in concentric manner
………….…(55) C. pseudopyramidatum
1. Cell wall granulate, verrucate, papillate or crenulate at the margins or on the face of
the semicells
27. Sinus open……….....………………...(42) C. ornatum var. sikkimicum var. nov.
27. Sinus closed
28. Outer margins undulate with 2 series of undulation just below the apex, face
of the semicells with a ring of granules……..(50) C. pseudocyclicum sp. nov.
28. Outer margins with teeth, median portion of the face of semicells smooth
…….........(4) C. botrytis var. mediolaeve
D. Semicells transversely or obliquely elliptical or reniform:
1. Semicells reniform or obliquely reniform in outline
2. Cell wall smooth or punctate, not granulate
3. Semicells with one or two median protuberance in face view
4. Semicells with one protuberance in face view
5. Cells smaller, less than 30 µm. long, semicells slightly compressed
…..…..………(45) C. phaseolus f. minus
5. Cells slightly longer, more than 30 µm. long, semicells not compressed
…..……(44) C. phaseolus var. phaseolus
4. Semicells with 2 protuberances in face view
……….(69) C. subphaseolanum sp. nov.
3. Semicells without any median protuberance
6. Semicells as long as broad or slightly broader, sinus closed
SYSTEMATIC PART
118
……………………(37) C. montrealense
6. Semicells longer than broad, sinus open angularly
……….(14) C. depressum var. reniforme
2. Cell wall granulate, verrucate, papillate or crenulate at the margins or on the face
of the semicells
7. Sinus closed
8. Sinus deep, more than 1/3 times than the maximum breadth of the cell
…...……….(62) C. reniforme var. minor
8. Sinus shallow, about 1/2 times than the maximum breadth of the cell
…...…………………..……(64) C. rosae
7. Sinus open
10. Cell dimension larger, more than 25 µm long, apex of the sinus rounded
……(48) C. portianum var. nephroideum
10. Cell dimension smaller, less than 25 µm long, apex of the sinus angular
…...….(46) C. portianum var. portianum
1. Semicells transversely elliptical or oblong-elliptical
11. Semicells flatly compressed, sinus closed
…..(15) C. dorsitruncatum var. pseudoscenedesmus
11. Semicells not flatly compressed, sinus open
12. Basal angles acutely rounded..……………………..……..(72) C. tithophorum
12. Basal angles broadly rounded
13. Cells stout, as broad as long…..…………….(13) C. depressum f. minutum
13. Cells relatively elongate, 1.2-1.3 times longer than broad
……...…(9) C. contractum var. minutum
SYSTEMATIC PART
119
E. Semicells rectangular, sub-rectangular, trapiziform or quadrangular in
outline:
1. Cell wall smooth or punctate
2. Cells small, length less than 50 µm
3. Sinus closed throughout, semicells transversely rectangular
…......(34) C. minimum var. subrotundum
3. Sinus ‘V’ shaped notch, semicells quadrangular………………(5) C. coaractum
2. Cells large, length greater than 50 µm
4. Lateral margins somewhat convex
5. Cells stout, broader, less than 1.5 times longer than broad, apex broadly
rounded………………………………….….…...(60) C. quadratum var. willei
5. Cells slightly elongate, 1.5 times or more longer than broad, apex rounded
…………(59) C. quadratum var. boreale
4. Lateral margins straight or somewhat retuse
6. Cell wall punctate, sinus angularly open, apex without any thickening
…..……………….(70) C. subquadratum
6. Cell wall smooth, sinus shallow notch, apex with a button-like thickening
…..……………...(52) C. pseudoexiguum
1. Cell wall granulate, verrucate or papillate at the margins or on the face of the
semicells
7. Semicells small, trapiziform, sinus open, broad, ‘U’-shaped………(61) C. regnesi
7. Semicells relatively large, transversely rectangular, sinus closed
8. Apex broadly concave, granules large..…...(16) C. favum var. indicum var. nov.
8. Apex retuse, granules relatively small
SYSTEMATIC PART
120
9. Cell dimension small, length less than 50 µm……(58) C. quadrum var. minus
9. Cell dimension larger, length more than 50 µm
………….(57) C. quadrum var. quadrum
F. Semicells hexagonal or polygonal in outline:
1. Lateral margins of the semicell with a tubercle, apex retuse…...…(66) C. sinostigos
1. Lateral margins of the semicell without a tubercle only angularly convex, apex flat
…………...……………(3) C. baffinense
1. Cosmarium amoenum (Brébisson) Ralfs var. intumescens Nordstedt
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 65, pl. 287, f. 2; Lenzenweger 1999, p. 108, pl. 60, f. 5, 6)
[Pl. V, f. 129]
Cells large, 1.5-2 times longer than broad; median constriction moderate, the sinus
slightly open and acute angled; semicells more or less cylindrical, rounded-
quadrate with lateral margins and apex convexly rounded; cell walls granulate,
granules more or less in vertical series, 7 vertical series of granules present in face
view, granules at the base of the semicells, more or less irregularly disposed in
vertical series; chloroplast axial with 2 pyrenoids in each semicells.
Length: 80-82 µm, Breadth: 44-46 µm, Isthmus: 28-29 µm.
Collection No. DD-197, 19.04.2009, Yoksum, Sikkim. In association with
blackish mass in a swamp near a falls (pH 5.5, temp. 19ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
2. Cosmarium angulatum (Perty) Rabenhorst f. major (Grunow) Turner
(Turner 1892, p. 56, pl. 8 f. 35, pl. 9, f. 25; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 69, pl. 204, f. 8,
11, pl. 205, f. 12)
[Pl. III, f. 82-84]
Cells medium sized, 1.4-2 times longer than broad; median constriction deep,
isthmus narrow; sinus closed; semicells 6-angled, basal angles rounded, the lateral
margins little convex above the basal angles and broadly rounded upper, lateral
angles, then converging and retuse to a narrow, truncate apex which is also retuse;
SYSTEMATIC PART
121
face of the semicells smooth; chloroplast two in each semicells with two
pyrenoids.
Length: 49-69 µm, Breadth: 27-46 µm, Isthmus: 16-22 µm.
Collection No. DD-389, 06.11.09, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
light green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC). DD-583,
12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with greenish-brown scum with
mosses on a small rock pool (pH 6.5, temp. 14ºC). DD-724, 02.05.2010,
Kalimpong. In association with brown scum with wet mosses beside a drain (pH
6.5, temp. 24ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Allahabad (Pandey & Pandey
1980); Pithoragarh (Chaturvedi & Habib 1993); Uttarakhand (Misra et al. 2008).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
3. Cosmarium baffinense Whelden
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 77, pl. 172, f. 12; pl. 213, f. 2-4)
[Pl. VI, f. 189, 190]
Cells small, as long as broad; semicells hexagonal with rounded angles; median
constriction deep, sinus closed, linear; lateral walls angularly concave; apex broad
and flat; cell wall minutely punctate.
Length: 10-11 µm, Breadth: 10-11 µm, Isthmus: 4-5 µm.
Collection No. DD-584, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with
greenish scum with wet mosses growing on soil (pH 6.5, temp. 15ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
4. Cosmarium botrytis (Meneghini) Ralfs var. mediolaeve West
(West & GS West 1912, p. 6. pl. 97, f. 5; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 90, pl. 265, f. 3;
Lenzenweger 1999, p. 111, pl. 56, f. 3)
[Pl. V, f. 130]
Cells large, 1.2-1.3 times longer than broad, median constriction deep, sinus
narrowly linear; semicells ovate-pyramidal, lower angles rounded, lateral margins
convex, apex truncate, upper angles rounded; cell wall uniformly granulate except
the apex; granules arranged in radiating and in concentric series, gradually
SYSTEMATIC PART
122
becoming smaller toward the midregion of the semicell which is quiet smooth;
granules somewhat small and generally without any definite disposition.
Length: 57-59 µm, Breadth: 47-49 µm, Isthmus: 23-25 µm.
In our specimen extremities are not dilated.
Collection No. DD-500, 10.11.2009, Changey falls, Sikkim. In association with
greenish scum on wet rock beside the falls (pH 6, temp. 14ºC).
Indian distribution: Gangtok, Sikkim (Prasad & Misra 1987); Southern
Himachal Pradesh (Dwivedi et al. 2009).
5. Cosmarium coarctatum West
(West & GS West 1908, p. 69, pl. 71, f. 8; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 101, pl. 205, f.
4, 5)
[Pl. VI, f. 181, 182]
Cells small, slightly longer than broad, median constriction shallow, the sinus
open, ‘V’-shaped notch; semicells rectangular, basal angles rounded, lateral
margins nearly parallel to a flat, truncate apex; cell wall smooth.
Length: 13-15 µm, Breadth: 10-12 µm, Isthmus: 4-6 µm.
Collection No. DD-583, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with
greenish-brown scum with mosses on a small rock pool (pH 6.5, temp. 14ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
6. Cosmarium cohnii (Nobilis) Keshri et Das comb. nov.
[Basionym Dysphinctium cohnii (Kirchner) Nobilis in Turner 1892, p. 41, pl. 8, f.
39]
[Pl. V, f. 125, 126]
Cells large, elongate, cylindrical, about 1.5 times longer than broad; median
constriction shallow, sinus widely open notch; semicells sub-cylindrical; lateral
margins evenly convex, slightly tumid to the apex which is broadly rounded; cell
wall verrucate, verrucae large, granular, closely arranged, numerous; face of the
semicells with similar concentric large granules all over the body.
Length: 93-96 µm, Breadth: 59-61 µm, Isthmus: 51-52 µm.
SYSTEMATIC PART
123
Since Dysphinctium is an invalid genus and all the members under this genus have
been transferred to either Actinotaenium or Cosmarium. The taxon has therefore
been placed under Cosmarium.
Collection No. DD-389, 06.11.09, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
light green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
7. Cosmarium connatum (Brébisson) Ralfs var. connatum
(West & GS West 1908, p. 25, pl. 66, f. 15-17; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 102, pl.
202, f. 8, 9, 12, 13)
[Pl. V, f. 127, 128]
Cells large, 1.2-1.5 times longer than broad; median constriction shallow, the
sinus very widely open; semicells transversely sub-elliptic, with a broad base,
apex very slightly flattened; cell wall finely punctate; chloroplast disposed in
relation to 2 large pyrenoids in each semicell and extending to the inner surface of
the cell wall.
Length: 57-61 µm, Breadth: 36-42 µm, Isthmus: 30-35 µm.
Collection No. DD-194, 19.04.2009, Yoksum, Sikkim. In association with green
filaments in a swamp (pH 5.5, temp. 19ºC). DD-488, 09.11.2009, Khechiperi
Lake, Sikkim. In association with blackish mass with weeds (Potamogeton sp.)
lodged on roots (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: East India (Turner 1892); Bombay and Karnatak (Bharati
1966); Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat 1975); Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar & Agarkar
1977, Agarkar et al. 1979); Uttar Pradesh (Prasad & Mehrotra 1977b); Nagpur
(Freitas & Kamat 1980); Allahabad (Pandey & Pandey 1980); Gujarat (Kumar &
Patel 1988); Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (Pandey et al. 1988); Rohilakhand, Uttar
Pradesh (Habib 1993); West Bengal (Mukherjee & Srivastava 1993); Kerala
(Sindhu & Panikkar 1995a); Nagpur, Maharashtra (Tarar et al. 1998); Kalimpong,
Namchi, Nayabazar, Phalut (Santra & Pal 2006); Jalgaon, North Maharashtra
(Mahajan & Nandan 2008); Jashpur, Chattisgarh (Toppo & Suseela 2009);
Jalgaon, Maharashtra (Patil et al. 2012).
This is a fairly common taxon of Cosmarium in India.
8. Cosmarium connatum (Brébisson) Ralfs var. depressum Irénée-Marie
SYSTEMATIC PART
124
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 103, pl. 202, f. 11)
[Pl. V, f. 145]
Cells large, 1.4-1.5 times longer than broad; median constriction moderate but
deeper than the typical, the sinus widely open; semicells transversely more elliptic
than the typical one, with a broad basal region; apex broadly rounded; inner wall
at the apex slightly retuse downwards; cell wall punctate, punctae large, arranged
in regular vertical series; chloroplast disposed in relation to 2 large pyrenoids in
each semicell and extending to the inner surface of the cell wall.
Length: 59-60 µm, Breadth: 41-42 µm, Isthmus: 32-33 µm.
Collection No. DD-536, 10.11.2009, Sordum, Sikkim. In association with green
scum on the wet rock (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Allahabad (Pandey & Pandey 1980); Lakhimpur-Kheri,
Uttar Pradesh (Habib 1995).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
9. Cosmarium contractum Kirchner var. minutum (Delponte) West et GS West
(West & GS West 1905, p. 173, pl. 61, f. 30-33; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 108, pl.
175, f. 16, 17 Lenzenweger 1999, p. 41, pl. 50, f. 20-22)
[Pl. IV, f. 107-110]
Cells moderately small, 1.2-1.3 times longer than broad, median constriction deep,
sinus widely open from a sharp-angled interior; semicells elliptic with broadly
rounded apex; chloroplast axial with single median pyrenoid; cell wall smooth.
Length: 26-28 µm, Breadth: 20-23 µm, Isthmus: 7-9 µm.
No. DD-379, 06.11.09, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with deep green
filaments floating freely on the surface of water forming bloom (pH 6, temp.
10ºC). DD-792, 11.11.2011, Rishop, West Bengal. In association with reddish
yellow powdery mass with the mosses growing in a drain (pH 6, temp. 20ºC).
Indian distribution: Savandurga, Karnataka (Gurudeva et al. 1983); Karnataka
(Bongle 1987); Gujarat (Kumar & Patel 1988); Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (Pandey et
al. 1988); Rohilakhand, Uttar Pradesh (Habib 1993); Bihar (Kumar & Chaudhary
2009).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
SYSTEMATIC PART
125
10. Cosmarium cycladatum Turner
(Turner 1892, p. 54, pl. 8, f. 12)
[Pl. IV, f. 105, 106]
Cells medium sized, 1.4-1.5 times longer than broad; semicells semicircular;
median constriction deep, sinus closed; basal angles narrow, lateral walls convex
moderately then attenuate forming broadly rounded apex; lateral margins
granulate-crenate, crenulations broad with two minute spines at two angles each,
another two series of similar crenulations just below the margins; face of the
semicells with a bunch of elongate thickenings extending below the apex, cell
wall otherwise smooth.
Length: 49-51 µm, Breadth: 33-35 µm, Isthmus: 10-12 µm.
Present taxon differs from the type in having median thickenings, otherwise very
much similar to the typical in external morphology.
Collection No. DD-475, 09.11.2009, Khechiperi Lake, Sikkim. In association
with mucilaginous mass growing mixed with mosses beside the Lake (pH 5.5,
temp. 14°C).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
11. Cosmarium cyclicum Lundell var. crassum Whelden
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 117, pl. 166, f. 7)
[Pl. III, f. 74]
Cells large, very slightly longer than broad; circular-elliptic; median constriction
very deep, the sinus very narrow with dilated exterior; semicells semi-circular,
basal angles slightly rounded; regularly crenate with about 18 crenae and with
single row of small undulations within the margin; chloroplast axial with two
pyrenoids in each semicells.
Length: 65-67 µm, Breadth: 62-64 µm, Isthmus: 23-24 µm.
Collection No. DD-90, 18.04.2009, Rimbi falls, Sikkim. In association with
brownish slimy mucilaginous mass on the rocks with wet mosses beside the falls
(pH 5, temp. 18ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
SYSTEMATIC PART
126
12. Cosmarium cymatopleurum Nordstedt
(West & GS West 1908, p. 5, pl. 65, f. 8, 9; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 118, pl. 196, f.
6, 7)
[Pl. IV, f. 102]
Cells large, 1-1.5 times longer than broad; median constriction deep, sinus closed
except the extremities; semicells trapeziform with sub-reform base, flatly undulate
lateral sides, 7 undulations per side; apex slightly produced which is truncate with
rounded angles; cell wall very finely punctate; chloroplast axial with 2 pyrenoids
per semicell.
Length: 67-68 µm, Breadth: 48-49 µm, Isthmus: 13-15 µm.
Collection No. DD-358, 13.05.09, Bulbulay, Sikkim. With phytoplankton
samples collected from shallow rock pool (pH 6, temp. 15ºC). DD-584,
12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with greenish scum with wet mosses
growing on soil (pH 6.5, temp. 15ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
13. Cosmarium depressum (Nageli) Lundell var. depressum f. minutum Heimerl
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 124, pl. 179, f. 4, 5)
[Pl. IV, f. 123]
Cells small, as broad as long, median constriction deep, sinus open with ‘V’
shaped notch; semicells elliptic, apex truncately rounded; chloroplast axial with
single pyrenoid; cell wall smooth.
Length: 20-22 µm, Breadth: 20-22 µm, Isthmus: 6-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-412, 06.11.09, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
dark greenish filament floating freely on the surface of water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Nagpur (Freitas & Kamat
1979); Gujarat (Kumar & Patel 1990a).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
14. Cosmarium depressum (Nageli) Lundell var. reniforme West et GS West
(West & GS West 1905, p. 178, pl. 62, f. 10; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 125, pl. 179,
f. 12, 13)
[Pl. VII, f. 213, 214]
SYSTEMATIC PART
127
Cells small, slightly broader than long, median constriction deep, sinus linear,
open; semicells reniform with broadly rounded apex; chloroplast axial with single
pyrenoids.
Length: 27-29 µm, Breadth: 23-25 µm, Isthmus: 6-8 µm.
Collection No. DD-585, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. With phytoplankton
sample collected from a small waterfall (pH 6.5, temp. 15ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
15. Cosmarium dorsitruncatum (Nordstedt) GS West var. pseudoscenedesmus (West
et GS West) Krieger et Gerloff
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 130, pl. 181, f. 11, 12)
[Pl. VI, f. 191, 192]
Cells medium sized, 1.3-1.4 times broader than long; medium constriction deep,
sinus closed, slightly open outwardly; semicells flatly trapeziform with rounded
basal angles, apex flatly truncate; chloroplast single axial plate with a median
pyrenoid in each semicells.
Length: 25-27 µm, Breadth: 34-36 µm, Isthmus: 12-14 µm.
Collection No. DD-418, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association with brownish-
yellow filamentous algal mass floating freely on the surface of the water (pH 6,
temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
16. Cosmarium favum West et GS West var. indicum var. nov.
[Pl. VI, f. 201, 202]
Cells large, about 1.2 times broader than long; median constriction deep, sinus
dilated at the apex, closed but inflated outwardly by the basal margins of the
semicells; semicells rectangular-reniform, lateral margins convex, apex broadly
oval; entire the cell wall ornamented with decussating rows of large granules
around each one of which is an oval and circular crease with deep punctations.
Length: 34-36 µm, Breadth: 41-44 µm, Isthmus: 15-16 µm.
External morphology of present taxon resembles C. favum West et GS West but
differs from it in,
1. Natures of the areoles (not hexagonal rather circular)
SYSTEMATIC PART
128
2. Shape of the semicells (rectangular-reniform)
3. Cell broader rather longer.
Holotype No. DD-27, 16.04.2009, Pelling, Sikkim. With phytoplankton samples
collected from the water of a small Lake (pH 5, temp. 21ºC). Kept in the algae
herbarium, Department of Botany, The University of Burdwan (BURD).
17. Cosmarium galeritum Nordstedt var. subtumidum Borge
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 144, pl. 188, f. 5, 6)
[Pl. III, f. 89; pl. IV, f. 90, 91]
Cells medium sized, 1.1-1.3 times longer than broad; median constriction deep,
the sinus closed; semicells in face view pyramidal-trapeziform, the basal and
apical angles broadly rounded; chloroplast two in each semicells with several
radiating ridges and with 2 pyrenoids; cell wall finely punctate.
Length: 49-53 µm, Breadth: 41-45 µm, Isthmus: 19-22 µm.
Collection No. DD-379, 06.11.09, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
deep green filaments floating freely on the surface of water forming bloom (pH 6,
temp. 10ºC). DD-536, 10.11.2009, Sordum, Sikkim. In association with green
scum on wet rock (pH 6, temp. 15ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
18. Cosmarium garrolense Roy et Bissett
(West & GS West 1908, p. 12, pl. 66, f. 7-8; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 144, pl. 196, f.
2; Lenzenweger 1999, p.89, pl. 53, f. 24-25)
[Pl. IV, f. 93]
Cells small, 1.2-1.3 times longer than broad, median constriction deep, sinus
linear, closed; semicells semicircular with slightly rounded basal angle; lateral
margins evenly convex with 4 undulations on each sides of semicells; apex broad
and flatly rounded; cell wall smooth.
Length: 22-24 µm, Breadth: 16-17 µm, Isthmus: 6-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-412, 06.11.09, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
dark greenish filament floating freely on the surface of water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Nagpur (Freitas & Kamat 1979); Rohilakhand, Uttar
Pradesh (Habib 1993); Goalpara, Assam (Deca et al. 2011).
SYSTEMATIC PART
129
19. Cosmarium garrolense Roy et Bissett var. garrolense f. dimidio-minus Gronblad
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 144, pl. 196, f. 3)
[Pl. III, f. 87, 88]
Cells small, 1.2-1.3 times longer than broad; isthmus deep, sinus closed, linear;
semicells trapeziform with broad, slightly rounded apex; lateral margins with 4
faint undulations; cell wall smooth; chloroplast axial with single median
pyrenoids.
Length: 17-19 µm, Breadth: 13-15 µm, Isthmus: 4-6 µm.
Collection No. DD-379, 06.11.09, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
light green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
20. Cosmarium garrolense Roy et Bissett var. minus Kidd et Wade
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 145, pl. 196, f. 4)
[Pl. VI, f. 164, 165]
Cells small, 1.2-1.3 times longer than broad; isthmus deep, sinus closed, linear;
semicells semicircular with retuse apex; lateral wall with 3 undulations in each
side; cell wall smooth.
Length: 21-22 µm, Breadth: 16-18 µm, Isthmus: 5-6 µm.
Collection No. DD-17, 16.04.2009, Pelling, Sikkim. In association with slimy
deep green filaments on the margin of a small water body (pH 5, temp. 19ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
21. Cosmarium granatum Brébisson ex Ralfs var. granatum
(West & GS West 1905, p. 186, pl. 63, f. 1-3; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 145, pl. 185,
f. 1-3; Lenzenweger 1999, p. 47, pl. 50, f. 26)
[Pl. V, f. 136-138]
Cells small, 1.4-1.5 times longer than broad, median constriction deep, sinus
closed; semicells truncate-pyramidal; basal angles rounded, lateral margin
converging from the basal angles toward the narrow, truncate apex; cell wall
smooth.
Length: 28-29 µm, Breadth: 19-20 µm, Isthmus: 5-6 µm.
SYSTEMATIC PART
130
In our specimen punctae is absent.
Collection No. DD-379, DD-382, 06.11.09, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In
association with deep green filaments floating freely on the surface of water
forming bloom (pH 6, temp. 10ºC). DD-435, 07.11.2009, Backthong falls, Sikkim.
In association with green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 14ºC).
Indian distribution: Amritsar, Punjab (Singh 1966); Bombay and Karnatak
(Bharati 1966); Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar 1969); Vidarbh, Maharashtra
(Kamat 1975); Uttar Pradesh (Prasad & Mehrotra 1977b); Nagpur (Freitas &
Kamat 1979); Marathwada, Maharashtra (Asthekar & Kamat 1979); Allahabad,
Uttar Pradesh (Pandey & Pandey 1980); Kashmir (Compère 1983); Karnataka
(Bongle 1987); Madhya Pradesh (Mahajan 1987); Gujarat (Kumar & Patel 1988);
Singbhum, Bihar (Das et al. 1990);Pithoragarh (Chaturvedi & Habib 1993);
Rohilkhand, Uttar Pradesh (Habib 1993); Ganga (Gupta & Shukla 1994); Nagpur,
Maharashtra (Tarar et al. 1998); Muriyad, Kerala (Sanilkumar & Thomas 2006);
Kalimpong, Tonglu, Mongpoo (Santra & Pal 2006); Uttar Pradesh (Dwivedi &
Misra 2007); Uttarakhand (Misra et al. 2008); Hartala Lake, Maharashtra (Dhande
& Jawale 2009); Uttaranchal (Shukla et al. 2008); Southern Himachal Pradesh
(Dwivedi et al. 2009).
This is a fairly common taxon of Cosmarium in India.
22. Cosmarium granatum Brébisson ex Ralfs var. elongatum Nordstedt
(West & GS West 1905, p. 189, pl. 63, f. 10; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 148, pl. 186,
f. 1, 2; Lenzenweger 1999, p. 47, pl. 50, f. 29)
[Pl. III, f. 80]
Cells medium sized, 1.6-1.7 times longer than broad, slightly elongate, isthmus
deep, sinus closed, dilated at the extremities; semicells pyramidal with rounded
basal angles, lateral margins converging to narrow, flatly rounded apex; cell wall
punctate, punctae large.
Length: 40-42 µm, Breadth: 25-26 µm, Isthmus: 6-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-389, 06.11.09, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
light green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
SYSTEMATIC PART
131
23. Cosmarium granatum Brébisson ex Ralfs var. subangulare West et GS West
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 149, pl. 185, f. 15, 16)
[Pl. V, f. 135]
Cells small, 1.3-1.4 times longer than broad; isthmus deep, sinus closed; semicells
semicircular with rounded basal angles; lateral walls convex strongly to narrow
retuse apex; cell wall smooth; chloroplast axial with single median pyrenoids in
each semicells.
Length: 24-25 µm, Breadth: 17-19 µm, Isthmus: 6-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-156, Kothak Lake, Sikkim. With phytoplankton samples
collected from the Lake (pH 5.5, temp. 15ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
24. Cosmarium hammeri Reinsch var. hammeri
(West & GS West 1905, p. 181, pl. 62, f. 20, 21; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 149, pl.
182, f. 1-3; Lenzenweger 1999, p. 78, pl. 52, f. 3)
[Pl. IV, f. 124]
Cells medium sized, 1.3-1.4 times longer than broad; median constriction deep,
sinus linear, closed except the at extremities; cells in face view trapeziform, the
basal and apical angles broadly rounded, the sides slightly concave and apex
broad and truncate; wall smooth; chloroplast single in each semicells with single
pyrenoid.
Length: 27-29 µm, Breadth: 20-22 µm, Isthmus: 6-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-132, 18.04.2009, Khechiperi Lake, Sikkim. In association
with brownish mass & wooly substances lodged with the submerged leaves of
Cryptomeria plants (pH: 5.5, temp. 17°C). DD-379, 06.11.09, Bitang-cho Lake,
Sikkim. In association with deep green filaments floating freely on the surface of
water forming bloom (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: East India (Turner 1892); Kolhapur, Maharashtra (Kamat
1963); Pachmari, Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar & Agarkar 1977); Gujarat (Kumar &
Patel 1988); Sambhar and Didwana Lake, Rajasthan (Jakher et al. 1990);
Pithoragarh (Chaturvedi & Habib 1993); Nagpur, Maharashtra (Tarar et al. 1998)
Sikkim (Santra & Pal 2006); West Bengal (Debnath & Mandal 2012).
SYSTEMATIC PART
132
25. Cosmarium hammeri Reinsch var. protuberans West et GS West
(West & GS West 1905, p. 183, pl. 62, f. 24, 25; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 150, pl.
182, f. 9-11)
[Pl. IV, f. 121, 122]
Cells medium sized, 1.3-1.5 times longer than broad; semicells with lateral
margins slightly convex; apex broadly concave; basal lateral angles broadly
rounded; semicells with single median tumor; chloroplast single in each semicells
with single pyrenoid.
Length: 25-39 µm, Breadth: 17-27 µm, Isthmus: 6-12 µm.
Collection No. DD-389, 06.11.09, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
light green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Andhra Pradesh (Suxena & Venkateswarlu 1968a); Vidarbh,
Maharashtra (Kamat 1975); Savandurga, Karnataka (Gurudeva et al. 1983);
Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (Pandey & Habib 1987); Goalpara, Assam (Deca et al.
2011).
26. Cosmarium hammeri Reinsch var. schmidlei Gronblad et Scott
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 151, pl. 182, f. 12, 13)
[Pl. V, f. 139]
Cells small, 1.4-1.5 times longer than broad; median constriction deep, the sinus
closed except at the extremities; semicells in face view trapeziform, without any
median tumor, the basal and apical angles rounded; lateral walls concave; apex
flattened; cell wall smooth; chloroplast with 2 pyrenoids in each semicells.
Length: 27-28 µm, Breadth: 17-19 µm, Isthmus: 5-6 µm.
Collection No. DD-536, 10.11.2009, Sordum, Sikkim. In association with green
scum on the wet rocks (pH 6, temp. 15ºC).
Indian distribution: Andhra Pradesh (Suxena & Venkateswarlu 1966b, 1968c);
Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar et al. 1979); Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh (Pandey &
Pandey 1980a); Andaman and Nikobar Island (Prasad & Misra 1992); Pithoragarh
(Chaturvedi & Habib 1993); West Bengal (Mukherjee & Srivastava 1993); Uttar
Pradesh (Dwivedi & Misra 2007).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
SYSTEMATIC PART
133
27. Cosmarium impressulum Elfving var. impressulum
(West & GS West 1908, p. 86, pl. 77, f. 14-18; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 159, pl.
215, f. 5; Lenzenweger 1999, p. 90, pl. 53, f. 15)
[Pl. VII, f. 211, 212]
Cells small, 1.6-1.7 times longer than broad; median constriction deep, sinus
closed but dilated at the apex; semicells elongate semicircular, the basal angles
rounded, the lateral margins nearly parallel with 4 undulations, retuse at the apex;
face of the semicells smooth.
Length: 25-26 µm, Breadth: 15-16 µm, Isthmus: 4-5 µm.
Turner (1892) has proposed a forma C. impressulum f. minor which is much
smaller than the type, although Prescott et al (1981) have considered it as
synonymous with the typical as opined by Krieger & Gerloff (1965). Our
specimen is intermediate between the two.
Collection No. DD-584, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with
greenish scum with wet mosses growing on soil (pH 6.5, temp. 15ºC).
Indian distribution: Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar 1971, Dhande & Jawale 2009);
Maharashtra (Kamat 1975, Asthekar & Kamat 1979); Kashmir (Compère 1983);
Uttar Pradesh (Chaturvedi et al. 1987; Habib 1995, 2008b, 2009); Gujarat (Kumar
& Patel 1988); Kurseong, Mongpoo (Santra & Pal 2006); Hamirpur (Habib &
Chaturvedi 2007); Jayantia hills (Das et al. 2009); Kumayun Himalaya (Habib &
Chaturvedi 2011); Uttarakhand (Habib & Chaturvedi 2012).
28. Cosmarium impressulum Elfving var. suborthogonum (West et GS West) Taft f.
suborthogonum
(Taft 1945, p. 195, pl. 3, f. 9f; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 160, pl. 215, f. 2, 4;
Lenzenweger 1999, p. 51, pl. 53, f. 19, 20)
[Pl. IV, f. 98-101]
Cells small, 1.3-1.5 times longer than broad; median constriction deep, sinus
narrowly linear and closed but inflated at the apex; semicells subsemicircular, the
basal angles broadly rounded, the lateral margins in the lower of the semicell
parallel but retuse, the upper lateral margin with 2 undulations, retuse in the
midregion; face of the semicells smooth; the lateral margins protruded in the
midregion.
SYSTEMATIC PART
134
Length: 26-28 µm, Breadth: 18-20 µm, Isthmus: 8-11 µm.
Collection No. DD-414, DD-418, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In
association with green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Gujarat (Kumar & Patel 1990a); Mamencho Lake, Sikkim
(Das & Keshri 2012).
29. Cosmarium javanicum Nordstedt
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 165, pl. 192, f. 8)
[Pl. VI, f. 173, 174]
Cells large, about 2 times longer than broad; median constriction shallow, sinus
linear, closed but dilated at the end; lateral margins evenly convex to broadly
rounded apex; basal angles narrowly rounded; cell wall striated and punctuate,
punctae large and irregularly distributed.
Length: 121-122 µm, Breadth: 63-64 µm, Isthmus: 32-33 µm.
Collection No. DD-382, 06.11.09, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
green filamentous mass attached to the surface of the submerged aquatic plants
(pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar
1969; Agarkar & Agarkar 1990); Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (Pandey & Habib 1987;
Habib & Pandey 1989); Kerala (Shaji et al. 1988); Pithoragarh (Chaturvedi &
Habib 1993); Rohilkhand, Uttar Pradesh (Habib 1993).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
30. Cosmarium laeve Rabenhorst var. octangulare (Wille) West et GS West
(West & GS West 1908, p. 101, pl. 73, f. 20; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 169, pl. 293,
f. 17, 18; Lenzenweger 1999, p. 92, pl. 52, f. 25)
[Pl. V, f. 148]
Cells small, slightly longer than broad; isthmus deep, sinus closed, dilated at the
apex; semicells angular, irregularly 8 sided, each lateral margin consisting of 3
short, straight or very slightly concave sides; apex narrowly retuse; cell wall
punctate.
Length: 23-25 µm, Breadth: 19-21 µm, Isthmus: 5-7 µm.
SYSTEMATIC PART
135
Collection No. DD-583, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with
greenish-brown scum with mosses in a small rock pool (pH 6.5, temp. 14ºC).
Indian distribution: Andhra Pradesh (Suxena & Venkateswarlu 1966b); West
Bengal (Pal & Santra 1993); Hartala Lake, Maharashtra (Dhande & Jawale 2009);
Goalpara, Assam (Deca et al. 2011).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
31. Cosmarium levinotabile Croasdale
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 172, pl. 198, f. 1-5)
[Pl. IV, f. 92]
Cells small, 1.3-1.5 times longer than broad with shallow, open sinus; semicells
truncate pyramidal, the basal and apical angles slightly rounded; lateral margins of
the semicell slightly concave with 3 undulations between basal and apical angles;
apex truncate and faintly bi-undulate; cell wall smooth; chloroplast axial with
single pyrenoid in each semicell.
Length: 25-26 µm, Breadth: 17-19 µm, Isthmus: 13-15 µm.
Collection No. DD-714, 01.05.2010, Kalimpong. With phytoplankton sample
collected from a roadside water body (pH 6.5, temp. 25ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
32. Cosmarium longicylindricum Scott et Grönblad var. indicum var. nov.
[Pl. VI, f. 162, 163]
Cells large, 2-2.5 times longer than broad; median constriction shallow, the sinus
open,acute angled; semicells sub-cylindrical; lateral margins parallel; apex flatly
rounded; cell wall smooth.
Length: 51-53 µm, Breadth: 23-25 µm, Isthmus: 17-18 µm.
Present taxon is very much similar to C. longicylindricum Scott & Grönblad but
differs in,
1. Cells with smaller dimension
2. Being stouter, L/B ratio smaller
3. Isthmus shallow, acute angled.
SYSTEMATIC PART
136
Holotype No. DD-585, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. With phytoplankton sample
collected from a small waterfalls (pH 6.5, temp. 15ºC).Kept in the algae
herbarium, Department of Botany, The University of Burdwan (BURD).
33. Cosmarium lundelli Delponte var. ellipticum West et GS West
(West & GS West 1905, p. 138, pl. 57, f. 3, 4; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 179, pl.160,
f. 7)
[Pl. VII, f. 203, 204]
Cells medium sized, very slightly longer than broad; apex typically angularly
elevated; median constriction deep, the sinus linear, narrow, closed; semicells
elliptic; apex broadly rounded; cell wall closely and evenly punctate; chloroplast
with parietal lamellae with two large pyrenoids in each semicells.
Length: 44-45 µm, Breadth: 41-43 µm, Isthmus: 16-18 µm.
Present specimen is smaller than the typical.
Collection No. DD-578, 10.11.2009, Sungure, Sikkim. In association with green
filaments on the rocks under running water (pH 6, temp. 16ºC).
Indian distribution: Karnataka (Bharati 1965b); Bombay and Karnatak (Bharati
1966); Uttar Pradesh (Prasad & Mehrotra 1977a); Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh
(Pandey & Pandey 1980b); Gujarat (Kumar & Patel 1988); Pithoragarh
(Chaturvedi & Habib 1993); Uttarakhand (Misra et al. 2007); Southern Himachal
Pradesh (Dwivedi et al. 2009).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
34. Cosmarium minimum West et GS West var. subrotundum West et GS West
(West et GS West 1895, p. 59, pl. 8, f. 11; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 189, pl. 206, f.
8)
[Pl. IV, f. 96, 97]
Cells small, 1-1.4 times longer than broad; median constriction shallow; sinus
nearly closed; semicells nearly oval; the basal angles broadly rounded; cell wall
smooth; chloroplast axial and single in each semicell, pyrenoid single.
Length: 12-17 µm, Breadth: 11-14 µm, Isthmus: 5-12 µm.
Collection No. DD-396, 06.11.09, Babamandir, Sikkim. In association with
mosses on the rock under the stream (pH 6, temp. 8ºC). DD-413, 06.11.2009,
SYSTEMATIC PART
137
Mamencho Lake Sikkim. In association with light greenish-yellow filaments
attached on the surface of the wet rock (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Mamencho Lake, Sikkim (Das & Keshri 2012).
35. Cosmarium moniliforme (Turpin) Ralfs var. moniliforme
(West & GS West 1908, p. 20, pl. 66, f. 1-3; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 191, pl.202, f.
5, 7)
[Pl. IV, f. 111]
Cells small, about twice long as broad; median constriction moderately deep, the
sinus widely open but usually acute, semicells circular, apex rounded; chloroplast
axial, one in each semicell with a central pyrenoid; cell wall finely punctate.
Length: 17-19 µm, Breadth: 10-12 µm, Isthmus: 2-3 µm.
Collection No. DD-492, 09.11.2009, Khechiperi Lake, Sikkim. From the water
squished from the bog pool (pH 6, temp. 14ºC). DD-412, 06.11.09, Mamencho
Lake, Sikkim. In association with dark greenish filament floating freely on the
surface of water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: East India (Turner 1892); Andhra Pradesh (Suxena &
Venkateswarlu 1968a); Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar 1969; Agarkar & Agarkar 1973
1977); Bombay & Karnataka (Bharati 1966); Uttar Pradesh (Prasad & Mehrotra
1977a); Kashmir (Compère 1983); Central India (Unni 1985); Uttar Pradesh
(Pandey & Habib 1987 , Habib & Chaturvedi 1993); Gujarat (Kumar & Patel
1990a); Pithoragarh (Chaturvedi & Habib 1993); Rohilkhand, Uttar Pradesh
(Habib 1993); Nagpur, Maharashtra (Tarar et al. 1998); Uttaranchal (Khare &
Suseela 2007); Karnataka (Shekhar et al. 2008, Giriayappanavar & Patil 2010);
Jashpur, Chhattisgarh (Toppo & Suseela 2009); Kodaikanal, Tamilnadu (Singh &
Balasingh 2011); Goalpara, Assam (Deca et al. 2011); Kolhapur, Maharashtra
(Leela et al. 2012); West Bengal (Debnath & Mandal, 2012).
36. Cosmarium moniliforme (Turpin) Ralfs forma
[Pl. V, f. 147]
Cells large, 1.6 times longer than broad; median constriction shallow, the sinus
widely open, acute at the apex; semicells circular; apex broadly rounded;
SYSTEMATIC PART
138
chloroplast axial with radiating small lobes, one in each semicell with a central
pyrenoid; cell wall finely punctate.
Length: 60-63 µm, Breadth: 37-38 µm, Isthmus: 29-30 µm.
Present specimen similar to the C. moniliforme (Turpin) Ralfs but differs in,
1. Larger in size
2. L/B ratio lower
3. Sinus shallow.
Such specimens are intergradiating forms, between Cosmarium & Actinotaenium.
To some extent it also looks like C. connatum (Brébisson) Ralfs.
Collection No. DD-389, 06.11.09, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
light green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
37. Cosmarium montrealense Croasdale
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 195, pl. 171, f. 13, 14)
Basionym: Cosmarium bioculatum Brébisson forma Irénéé-Marie
: Cosmarium bioculatum var. canadense Krieger et Gerloff
[Pl. V, f. 142]
Cells medium sized, slightly longer than broad; semicells transversely elliptic but
with a reniform base and strongly rounded apex; sinus closed; cell wall smooth,
circular in lateral view; chloroplast parietal with finger like projections; pyrenoid
single.
Length: 21-25 µm, Breadth: 18-22 µm, Isthmus: 5-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-412, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with dark greenish filament floating freely on the surface of the water (pH 6,
temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Mamencho Lake, Sikkim (Das & Keshri 2012).
38. Cosmarium naegelianum Brébisson
(West & GS West 1908, p. 14, pl. 66, f. 12; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 195, pl. 289, f.
3, 4)
[Pl. III, f. 85, 86]
Cells small, 1.2-1.3 times longer than broad; median constriction deep, sinus
closed, linear with slightly dilated extremities; semicells truncate-pyramidal, the
SYSTEMATIC PART
139
lower angles rectangular, the lateral margins at first divergent to a prominent
protrusion and slightly convergent and 3-undulate to a truncate apex, the apical
margins slightly bi-undulate; cell wall finely punctate; in lateral view semicells
sub-hexagonal; chloroplast with single pyrenoid in each semicell.
Length: 22-23 µm, Breadth: 17-19 µm, Isthmus: 7-9 µm.
Collection No. DD-516, 10.11.2009, Dentam river, Sikkim. In association with
green filaments on the wet rocks (pH 6, temp. 19ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
39. Cosmarium nitidulum De Notoris
(West & GS West 1905, p. 197, pl. 64, f. 1-3; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 197, pl. 189,
f. 2, 3; Lenzenweger 1999, p. 50, pl. 49, f. 5, 6)
[Pl. VI, f. 171, 172]
Cells medium sized, 1.2-1.3 times longer than broad; median constriction deep,
sinus closed except at the extremities; semicells trapeziform with rounded basal
and apical angles; lateral margins slightly convex; apex truncately rounded; cell
wall smooth; chloroplast 2 in each semicell, axial with single pyrenoids.
Length: 30-32 µm, Breadth: 23-25 µm, Isthmus: 8-10 µm.
Collection No. DD-583, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with
greenish-brown scum with mosses on a small rock pool (pH 6.5, temp. 14ºC).
Indian distribution: Banaras, Uttar Pradesh (Venkataraman 1957); Kashmir
(Compère 1983); Gujarat (Kumar & Patel 1988); Ganga (Gupta & Shukla 1994);
Nagpur, Maharashtra (Tarar et al. 1998); Uttar Pradesh (Misra & Srivastava
2003); Uttar Pradesh (Dwivedi & Misra 2007); Uttaranchal (Shukla et al. 2008);
Southern Himachal Pradesh (Dwivedi et al. 2009).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
40. Cosmarium nudum (Turner) Gutwinski
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 202, pl. 158, f. 2)
[Pl. VII, f. 207, 208]
Cells medium sized, as long as broad; median constriction deep, sinus 3 undulate,
slightly closed at the apex; semicells semi-circular with lateral walls having faint
undulations; basal angles produced and thickened; apex broadly rounded with
SYSTEMATIC PART
140
thick wall; cell wall smooth; chloroplast axial, 2 in each semicells with single
median pyrenoids.
Length: 27-31 µm. Breadth: 27-31 µm. Isthmus: 6-10 µm.
Collection No. DD-418, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with brownish-yellow filamentous algal mass floating freely on the surface of the
water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Kerala (Shaji & Patel 1990); Pithoragarh (Chaturvedi &
Habib 1993); Lakhimpur-Kheri, Uttar Pradesh (Habib 1995).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
41. Cosmarium obsoletum (Hantzsch) Reinsch
(West & GS West 1905, p. 13, pl. 54, f. 1-3; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 203, pl. 157, f.
1, 2, 5)
[Pl. VII, f. 205, 206]
Cells medium sized, 1-1.2 times broader than long, deeply constricted; sinus
linear, closed except the extremities; semicells semicircular, depressed, apex
broadly rounded, basal angles mammillately thickened, lateral angles slightly
convex; cell wall porous; chloroplast axial, 2 in each semicells with single
pyrenoids centrally placed.
Length: 37-38 µm, Breadth: 44-45 µm, Isthmus: 14-15 µm.
Collection No. DD-417, DD-419, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In
association with brownish-yellow filamentous algal mass floating freely on the
surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC). DD-717, 01.05.2010, Kalimpong. With
phytoplankton sample collected from a small waterbody (pH 6.5, temp. 25ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Kodaikanal, Tamilnadu
(Iyengar & Vimla Bai 1941; Bharati & Pai 1972; Singh & Balasingh 2011);
Karnataka (Bharati 1965b); Bombay and Karnatak (Bharati 1966); Madhya
Pradesh (Agarkar & Agarker 1972, Agarkar et al. 1979); Allahabad (Pandey &
Pandey 1980); Gujarat (Kumar & Patel 1988); Uttar Pradesh (Misra & Srivastava
2003; Dwivedi & Misra 2007); Western Himalaya (Shukla et al. 2008);
Uttaranchal (Shukla et al. 2008); Mani pokhar pond (Toppo & Suseela 2009);
Southern Himachal Pradesh (Dwivedi et al. 2009); Eastern Himalaya (Yasmin et
al. 2011).
SYSTEMATIC PART
141
42. Cosmarium ornatum Ralfs var. sikkimicum var. nov.
[Pl. VI, f. 185, 186]
Cells large, 1.4-1.6 times longer than broad; median constriction deep, sinus
widely open and acute angled; semicels sub-ovate, tapered from a decidedly
rounded base to a rounded apex; lateral margins having a patch of prominent
rounded granules; apex with several rounded granules in two series as crown; face
of the semicells with granular protuberances which are somewhat elongated in the
midregion of the semicells; cell wall otherwise smooth.
Length: 42-43 µm, Breadth: 27-29 µm, Isthmus: 11-12 µm.
Present taxon is very much similar to the C. ornatum Ralfs var. ornatum but
differs in,
1. Sinus wide open rather closed
2. Semicels sub-ovate (rather reniform)
3. Cells somewhat longer.
No. DD-391, 06.11.09, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with brownish
scum attached to the surface of the submerged part of the semi aquatic plants (pH
6, temp. 10ºC). Kept in the algae herbarium, Department of Botany, The
University of Burdwan (BURD).
43. Cosmarium pakistanicum Islum
(Islam 1970, p. 926, pl. 14, f. 2)
[Pl. IV, f. 112, 113]
Cells large, about twice as long as broad; median constriction shallow; sinus
narrow, closed; semicells broadly elliptic-pyramidate in shape; basal angles
narrowly rounded, lateral margins slightly retuse in the lower half then again
slightly convex; apex broadly rounded; chloroplast having 10 longitudinal ridges;
wall punctate irregularly.
Length: 123-128 µm, Breadth: 68-70 µm, Isthmus: 49-50 µm.
Collection No. DD-379, 06.11.09, Sikkim. In association with deep green
filaments floating freely on the surface of water forming bloom (pH 6, temp.
10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
SYSTEMATIC PART
142
44. Cosmarium phaseolus Brébisson in Ralfs var. phaseolus
(West & GS West 1905, p. 158, pl. 60, f. 12-14; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 222, pl.
171, f. 1-3; Lenzenweger 1999, p. 54, pl. 50, f. 5)
[Pl. VI, f. 176]
Cells medium sized, 1-1.3 times longer than broad; median constriction deep, the
sinus narrow, dilated at the apex; semicells reniform; apex broadly rounded; cell
wall punctate; chloroplast axial with single pyrenoid in each semicell.
Length: 34-36 µm, Breadth: 28-29 µm, Isthmus: 20-21 µm.
Collection No. DD-397, 06.11.09, Babamandir, Sikkim, In association with
mucilaginous mass on the rocks under a stream (pH 6, temp. 8ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Bombay (Dixit 1937); Andhra
Pradesh (Suxena & Venkateswarlu 1968a); Uttar Pradesh (Prasad & Mehrotra
1977b); Gujarat (Kumar & Patel 1990a); Rohilkhand, Uttar Pradesh (Habib 1993);
Nagpur, Maharashtra (Tarar et al. 1998).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
45. Cosmarium phaseolus Brébisson in Ralfs var. phaseolus f. minus Boldt
(Boldt 1887, p. 102; West & GS West 1905, p. 159, pl. 60, f. 15; Prescott et al.
1981, p. 222, pl. 171, f. 4, 5; Lenzenweger 1999, p. 55, pl. 50, f. 11)
[Pl. V, f. 143]
Cells small, more or less as long as broad or broader; median constriction deep,
sinus narrow, dilated at the apex; semicells rather narrowly reniform; wall smooth;
chloroplast axial with one pyrenoid in each semicell.
Length- 23-26 µm, Breadth- 26-28 µm, Isthmus- 3-5 µm.
Collection No. DD-412, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with dark greenish filament floating freely on the surface of the water (pH 6,
temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Bombay (Dixit 1937); Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar
1971); Bandhabgarh, Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar et al. 1979); Allahabad, Uttar
Pradesh (Pandey & Pandey 1980c); Hartala Lake, Maharastra (Dhande & Jawale
2009); Mamencho Lake, Sikkim (Das & Keshri 2012).
SYSTEMATIC PART
143
46. Cosmarium portianum Archer
(West & GS West 1908, p. 165, pl. 88, f. 4-7; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 229, pl. 254,
f. 8, 9; Lenzenweger 1999, p. 117, pl. 60, f. 15, 16)
[Pl. VI, f. 193-195]
Cells small, 1-1.5 times longer than broad; median constriction moderately deep,
sinus broadly open with rounded extremity; semicells elliptic, granulate, granules
rounded arranged in vertical series or irregularly; chloroplast single, axial with
single pyrenoids.
Length: 20-24 µm, Breadth: 16-21 µm, Isthmus: 6-8 µm.
Collection No. DD- DD-27, 16.04.2009, Pelling, Sikkim. With phytoplankton
samples collected from a small Lake (pH 5, temp. 21ºC). DD-389, 06.11.09,
Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with light green filaments on the surface
of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Bombay and Karnatak (Bharati
1966); Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar 1971); Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat
1975); Nagpur (Freitas & Kamat 1979); Kashmir (Compère 1983); Karnataka
(Bongle 1987); Andhra Pradesh (Satya Mohan 1987); Gujarat (Kumar & Patel
1988); Singbhum, Bihar (Das et al. 1990); Udalkachar, Madhya Pradesh (Habib
1991); Karnataka (Venkateshwarlu et al. 2011); Goalpara, Assam (Deca et al.
2011).
47. Cosmarium portianum Archer forma
[Pl. VI, f. 187, 188]
Cells small, relatively elongate than the typical, 1.5-1.6 times longer than broad;
median constriction deep, sinus broadly open with rounded extremity; semicells
circular, granulate, granules rounded arranged in 7 vertical series in face view;
chloroplast single, axial with single pyrenoids.
Length: 24-25 µm, Breadth: 15-16 µm, Isthmus: 4-6 µm.
Present taxon is very much similar to the C. portianum Archer but differs in,
1. Semicells circular
2. Cells longer than the typical.
Collection No. DD-27, 16.04.2009, Pelling, Sikkim. With phytoplankton samples
collected from a small Lake (pH 5, temp. 21ºC).
SYSTEMATIC PART
144
48. Cosmarium portianum Archer var. nephroideum Wittrock
(West & GS West 1908, p. 167, pl. 80, f. 10, 11; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 230, pl.
254, f. 4; Lenzenweger 1999, p. 118, pl. 60, f. 17)
[Pl. IV, f. 103, 104]
Cells small, 1-1.1 times longer than broad; isthmus deep, sinus open; semicells
semicircular-elliptic; cell wall granulate granules arranged in 7 longitudinal series.
Length: 25-27 µm, Breadth: 23-25 µm, Isthmus: 9-10 µm.
Collection No. DD-379, 06.11.09, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
deep green filaments floating freely on the surface of water forming bloom (pH 6,
temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat 1975); Marathwada,
Maharashtra (Asthekar & Kamat 1979); Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh (Pandey &
Pandey 1980a); Pithoragarh (Chaturvedi & Habib 1993); Nagpur, Maharashtra
(Tarar et al. 1998); Uttar Pradesh (Dwivedi & Misra 2007); Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh
(Habib 2008); Hartala Lake, Maharashtra (Dhande & Jawale 2009); Jashpur,
Chhattisgarh (Toppo & Suseela 2009); Kumayun Himalaya (Habib & Chaturvedi
2011).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
49. Cosmarium pseudamoenum Wille
(West & GS West 1912, p. 31, pl. 102, f. 7-9; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 234, pl. 287,
f. 2-4; Lenzenweger 1999, p. 118, pl. 60, f. 22, 23)
[Pl. V, f. 133, 134]
Cells large, above twice as long as broad; median constriction only slight, sinus a
small and open notch; semicells oblong with the lateral margins very slightly
convex; apex broadly rounded; cell wall uniformly granulate, granules small,
arranged in distinct longitudinal series.
Length: 65-67 µm, Breadth: 25-26 µm, Isthmus: 22- 22 µm.
Collection No. DD-389, 06.11.09 Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
light green filaments on the surface of the water. DD-756, 10.11.2011, Lava, West
Bengal. In association with green filaments floats freely on the surface of a small
water body (pH 6, temp 17ºC).
SYSTEMATIC PART
145
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Bombay &Karnatak (Bharati
1966); Goalpara, Assam (Deca et al. 2011).
50. Cosmarium pseudocyclicum sp. nov.
[Pl. V, f. 131, 132]
Cells of medium sized, circular-elliptic in size, 1.2 times longer than broad;
median constriction deep, sinus narrow, closed; semicells semi-circular with flat
apex; lateral margins convex and crenate, 8-9 crenulations in each side, another 2
rows of small undulations just below the margins, margins of the apex with low
undulations, 5-6 in number, face of the semicells with 6 granules circularly
disposed, cell wall otherwise smooth; apical and basal angles narrowly rounded;
semicells with 2 chloroplast and 2 pyrenoids in each semicells.
Length: 52-54 µm, Breadth: 44-46 µm, Isthmus: 20-22 µm.
Present specimen is very much similar to C. cyclicum Lundell but differs in,
1. Flat apex
2. Cell less broad
3. Ring of granules in the face of the semicells.
Holotype No. DD-416, 06.11.09, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
brownish scum attached to the surface of the submerged part of the semi aquatic
plants (pH 6, temp. 10ºC). Kept in the algae herbarium, Department of Botany,
The University of Burdwan (BURD).
51. Cosmarium pseudodebaryi sp. nov.
[Pl. IV, f. 115, 116]
Cells medium in size, about 2 times longer than broad; median constriction
shallow, sinus angularly closed, semicells sub-quadrate; lateral margins sub-
parallel forming broadly rounded apex; basal angles narrow; upper angles wide;
cell wall colourless and irregularly punctate.
Length: 71-74 µm, Breadth: 35-36 µm, Isthmus: 19-20 µm.
Present specimen is very much similar to C. debaryi Archer but differs in,
1. Cell dimension smaller
2. Sinus closed
3. Cell wall porous.
SYSTEMATIC PART
146
Holotype No. DD-422, Backthong falls, Sikkim. In association with brown scum
with mosses on the wet rock surface (pH 6, temp. 14ºC). Kept in the algae
herbarium, Department of Botany, The University of Burdwan (BURD).
52. Cosmarium pseudoexiguum Raciborski
(West & GS West 1908, p. 70, f. 25, 26; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 237, pl. 208, f. 12-
14)
[Pl. III, f. 78]
Cells medium sized, 2 times longer than broad; median constriction moderate, the
sinus narrow and closed; semicells sub-quadrangular; basal angles narrowly
rounded; the lateral margins slightly retuse for half the distance to the apex and
then converging, straight to a broad, slightly rounded apex; cell wall smooth;
chloroplast axial with 2 pyrenoids in each semicell.
Length: 50-52 µm, Breadth: 25-26 µm, Isthmus: 20-22 µm.
Our specimen tallies in each respect to the type but is much larger.
Collection No. DD-194, 19.04.2009, Yoksum, Sikkim. In association with green
filaments in the swamp (pH 5.5, temp. 19ºC).
Indian distribution: Marathwada, Maharashtra (Asthekar & Kamat 1979);
Jalgaon, North Maharashtra (Mahajan & Nandan 2008).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
53. Cosmarium pseudolundellii sp. nov.
[Pl. VI, f. 175]
Cells small, about as long as broad; median constriction deep, sinus closed except
the exterior; semicells nearly triangular; apex typically angularly elevated, broad,
basal angles rounded; cell wall smooth; chloroplast single in each semicells with a
central pyrenoid.
Length: 18-20 µm, Breadth: 18-19 µm, Isthmus: 4-5 µm.
Present specimen is much similar to C. lundellii Delponte in external morphology,
but differs,
1. Much smaller in size
2. Cell wall smooth rather punctate.
SYSTEMATIC PART
147
Holotype No. DD-380, 06.11.2009 Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
green scum in a swamp (pH 6, temp. 10ºC). Kept in the algae herbarium,
Department of Botany, The University of Burdwan (BURD).
54. Cosmarium pseudo-obsoletum sp. nov.
[Pl. V, f. 144]
Cells large, slightly broader than long; median constriction shallow, sinus open,
‘V’ shaped; semicells semi-circular, little depressed, apex broadly convex, basal
angles mamillately thickened; cell wall perforated with vertical rows of numerous
large pores; chloroplast axial, 2 in each semicells with 2 pyrenoids.
Length: 74-77 µm, Breadth: 80-82 µm, Isthmus: 61-62 µm.
Present specimen is very much similar to C. obsoletum (Hantzsch) Reinsch but
differs in,
1. Pores in vertical rows
2. Sinus shallow, open.
Holotype No. DD-412, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association with dark
greenish filaments floating freely on the surface of water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC). Kept
in the algae herbarium, Department of Botany, The University of Burdwan
(BURD).
55. Cosmarium pseudopyramidatum Lundell
(West & GS West 1905, p. 201, pl. 64, f. 9-12; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 242, pl.
193, f. 1-4; Lenzenweger 1999, p. 60, pl. 48, f. 9-12)
[Pl. VI, f. 183, 184]
Cells medium sized, 1.4-1.5 times longer than broad; median constriction
moderately deep, sinus closed, dilated at the extremities; semicells pyramidal with
lateral margins convex, basal angles rounded; apex narrowly flat with rounded
apical angles; cell wall punctate, punctae in series; chloroplast 2 in each semicell
with median pyrenoids.
Length: 49-50 µm, Breadth: 34-36 µm, Isthmus: 18-19 µm.
Collection No. DD-14, 16.04.2009, Pelling, Sikkim. In association with yellowish
green filamentous mass on damp soil in a partially shady place in the margin of a
water body (pH 5, temp. 19ºC).
SYSTEMATIC PART
148
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Karnataka (Bharati 1965b);
Bombay & Karnatak (Bharati 1966); Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat 1975);
Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh (Pandey & Pandey 1980); Savandurga, Karnataka
(Gurudeva et al. 1983); Singbhum, Bihar (Das et al. 1990); Pithoragarh
(Chaturvedi & Habib 1993); Lakhimpur-Kheri, Uttar Pradesh (Habib 1995);
Andhra Pradesh (Sarojini 1996); Uttarakhand (Misra et al. 2008); Hartala Lake,
Maharashtra (Dhande & Jawale 2009); Goalpara, Assam (Deca et al. 2011).
56. Cosmarium pyramidatum Brébisson ex Ralfs var. indicum var. nov.
[Pl. VI, f. 166-168]
Cells large, pyramidal, about 2 times longer than broad; median constriction
shallow, sinus open ‘V’ shaped with rounded apex; lateral margins slightly
convex; attenuated forming truncate apex with rounded angles, basal angles
acutely rounded; cell wall punctate, two types of punctae, fine and slightly larger
punctae, intermingled with each other.
Length: 110-112 µm, Breadth: 57-59 µm, Isthmus: 42-44 µm.
Present specimen very much similar to C. pyramidatum Brébisson ex Ralfs in
external morphology but differs,
1. Sinus open
2. Cells longer than the original type.
Holotype No. DD-583, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with
greenish-brown scum with mosses on a small rock pool (pH 6.5, temp. 14ºC).
Kept in the algae herbarium, Department of Botany, The University of Burdwan
(BURD).
57. Cosmarium quadrum Lundell var. quadrum
(West & GS West 1912, p. 20, pl. 100, f. 3-6; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 264, pl. 283,
f. 1, 3, 5 Lenzenweger 1999, p. 120, pl. 59, f. 4, 5)
[Pl. V, f. 156, 157; pl. VI, f. 160, 161]
Cells large, slightly longer than broad; median constriction deep, the sinus
narrowly linear with a slightly dialated extremity; semicells sub-rectangular, lower
angles rounded, upper angles broadly rounded, lateral margins slightly convex,
apex very slightly retuse; cell wall densely granulate, granules solid, arranged in
SYSTEMATIC PART
149
decussating, oblique series and in somewhat less distinct vertical series, 34
granules at the margin of a semicell and slightly reduced in size in the middle of
the apex.
Length: 54-68 µm, Breadth: 54-62 µm, Isthmus: 13- 20 µm.
Collection No. DD-483, 09.11.2009, Khechiperi Lake, Sikkim. From the water
squished from the bog pool (pH 6, temp. 14°C). DD-410, DD-411, 06.11.09,
Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association with light green filaments swims freely
on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC). DD-716, 01.05.2010, Kalimpong,
West Bengal. With the phytoplankton samples from a small water tank (pH 6.5
temp 25ºC).
Indian distribution: East India (Turner 1892); Ranchi, Bihar (Sinha & Mishra
1967); Andhra Pradesh (Suxena & Venkateswarlu 1968c); Madhya Pradesh
(Agarkar 1971; Agarkar & Agarkar, 1977); Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat 1975);
Uttar Pradesh (Pandey & Pandey 1980; Chaturvedi et al. 1987; Habib 1993; Habib
& Chaturvedi 1993; Mishra & Ram 2007; Shukla et al. 2008); Kerala (Shaji et al.
1988); Singbhum, Bihar (Das et al. 1990); West Bengal (Pal & Santra 1993);
Nagpur, Maharashtra (Tarar et al. 1998); Siddharth Nagar (Prakash et al. 2005);
Orissa (Jena et al. 2006); Muriyad, Kerala (Sanilkumar & Thomas 2006); Sikkim,
Kalimpong (Santra & Pal 2006); North-East India (Yasmin et al. 2011); Assam
(Deka et al. 2011).
58. Cosmarium quadrum Lundell var. minus Nordstedt
(Prescott et al 1981, p. 264, pl. 283, f. 8)
[Pl. V, f. 153]
Cells small, very slightly longer than broad; median constriction deep, the sinus
narrowly linear with a slightly dilated extremity; semicells sub-rectangular, lower
angles rounded, upper angles broadly rounded, lateral margins slightly convex,
apex very slightly retuse; cell wall densely granulate, granules solid, arranged in
decussating series, 23 granules showing at the margin of the semicells and slightly
reduced in size in the middle of the apex; chloroplast axial with 2 pyrenoids in
each semicell.
Length: 39-41 µm, Breadth: 38-39 µm, Isthmus: 12-17 µm.
SYSTEMATIC PART
150
Collection No. DD-194, 19.04.2009, Yoksum, Sikkim. In association with green
filaments in a swamp (pH 6, temp. 15ºC). DD-222, 10.05.2009, Changu Lake,
Sikkim. With phytoplankton samples collected from the Lake (pH 6, temp. 6ºC).
Indian distribution: Bombay and Karnatak (Bharati 1966); Pithoragarh
(Chaturvedi & Habib 1993); Goalpara, Assam (Deca et al. 2011).
59. Cosmarium quadratum Ralfs var. quadratum f. boreale Croasdale
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 260, pl. 293, f. 4)
[Pl. III, f. 76]
Cells medium sized, 1.5-2 times longer than broad; median constriction moderate,
sinus closed, opening little wide toward exrterior; semicells sub-quadrate, lower
angles narrowly rounded, lateral angles slightly retuse and ver slightly tapered to a
flatly rounded apex; cell wall finely punctate; chloroplast axile, covering almost
entire region of the semicells, pyrenoids 2 in each semicell.
Length: 57-58 µm, Breadth: 32-33 µm, Isthmus: 21-22 µm.
Collection No. DD-289, 12.05.2009, Backthong falls, Sikkim. In association with
phytoplankton with mosses on the rocks beside the falls (pH 6, temp. 15ºC). DD-
728, 02.05.2010, Mach pokhri, West Bengal. With phytoplankton sample
collected from the waterbody (pH 6.5, temp. 22ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
60. Cosmarium quadratum Ralfs var. quadratum f. willei
(West & GS West 1908, p. 59, pl. 87, f. 21, 22; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 261, pl.
293, f. 6, 7; Lenzenweger 1999, p. 84, pl. 51, f. 35a)
[Pl. III, f. 77]
Cells medium sized, 1.4-1.5 times longer than broad; median constriction
moderate, the sinus narrow, opening rather widely toward the exterior; semicells
sub-quadrate, lower angles narrowly rounded and slightly protruding, the lateral
margins slightly convex, becoming little broader toward the broadly rounded
apex; cell wall smooth; chloroplast axial converging the entire part of the semicell
with 2 pyrenoids.
Length: 57-58 µm, Breadth: 38-39 µm, Isthmus: 21-22 µm.
SYSTEMATIC PART
151
Collection No. DD-289, 12.05.2009, Backthong falls, Sikkim. In association with
phytoplankton with mosses on the rocks beside the falls (pH 6, temp. 15ºC).
Indian distribution: Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat 1975).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
61. Cosmarium regnesi Reinsch
(West & GS West 1908, p. 36, pl. 68, f. 19-28; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 274, pl.
263, f. 2-4; Lenzenweger 1999, p. 126, pl. 61, f. 7)
[Pl. VII, f. 217, 218]
Cells small, as long as broad; median constriction deep, sinus widely open,
rounded; semicells transversely oblong rectangular with apex widely retuse;
margin of the semicell with 6 minute teeth, 2 apical and 2 lateral; another pair of
same teeth on the face of the semicells.
Length: 11-12 µm, Breadth: 11-12 µm, Isthmus: 5-6 µm.
Collection No. DD-380, 06.11.2009 Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
green scum in a swamp (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Simla, Himachal Pradesh (Kamat 1968b); Gwalior, Madhya
Pradesh (Agarkar 1971); Uttar Pradesh (Prasad & Mehrotra 1977b); Karnataka
(Hegde 1986b).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
62. Cosmarium reniforme (Ralfs) Archer var. minor Irénée-Marie
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 277, pl. 259, f. 8,)
[Pl. V, f. 154, 155]
Cell medium sized, 1.1-1.3 times longer than broad; median constriction deep, the
sinus narrow and closed; semicells reniform; cell wall granulate, granules
rounded, solid, disposed in obliquely decussating series, about 16 granules
showing at the margins of the semicells.
Length: 21-23 µm, Breadth: 19-23 µm, Isthmus: 4-6 µm.
Our specimen is much smaller but very much similar in morphology.
Prescott et al (1981) doubts the validity of this variety as it differs from the typical
in mere dimension which in case of Irénée-Marie (1956) not much differ. Prescott
et al (1981) still retained this variety since it is a smaller variety. Our specimen is
SYSTEMATIC PART
152
still smaller and it appears that such forms are not uncommon. Although our
specimen as much smaller, we have retained this under the variety ‘minor’
subscribing to the validity of the form described.
Collection No. DD-583, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with
greenish-brown scum with mosses on a small rock pool (pH 6.5, temp. 14ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
63. Cosmarium retusiforme (Wille) Gutwinski
(West & GS West 1905, p. 180, pl. 57, f. 17-18; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 279, pl.
219, f. 5; Lenzenweger 1999, p. 84, pl. 52, f. 8)
[Pl. VII, f. 215, 216]
Cells small, 1.3-1.4 times longer than broad; median constriction deep, sinus
narrow, semicells sub-pyramidal with truncate apex; basal angles broadly
rounded, lower part of the lateral margin slightly convex, the upper portion
retusely converging to the poles; cell wall smooth; chloroplast axial, single in each
semicell with a pyrenoid.
Length: 21-22 µm, Breadth: 15-16 µm, Isthmus: 6-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-27, 16.04.2009, Pelling, Sikkim. With phytoplankton samples
collected from the water of a small Lake (pH 5, temp. 21ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Bombay and Karnatak (Bharati
1966); Kashmir (Suxena & Venkateswarlu 1968b); Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat
1975); Uttar Pradesh (Prasad & Mehrotra 1977b); Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh
(Pandey & Pandey 1980); Gujarat (Kumar & Patel 1988); Uttar Pradesh (Misra &
Srivastava 2003); Uttar Pradesh (Dwivedi & Misra 2007); Jayantia hills (Das et al.
2009); Karnataka (Venkateshwarlu et al. 2011).
64. Cosmarium rosae Růžička
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 280, pl. 260, f. 3, 4)
[Pl. V, f. 140, 141]
Cells medium sized, slightly longer than broad; median constriction deep, sinus
closed, linear; semicells elliptic-reniform; lateral margins with faint undulations, 5
undulations in each side; apex broad, rounded, smooth; cell wall punctate;
chloroplast axial, single in each semicells with single pyrenoids.
SYSTEMATIC PART
153
Length: 29-32 µm. Breadth: 25-29 µm. Isthmus: 12-15 µm.
Collection No. DD-410, 06.11.09, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
deep green filaments floating freely on the surface of water forming bloom (pH 6,
temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
65. Cosmarium sikkimicum sp. nov.
[Pl. VI, f. 199, 200]
Cells large, slightly broader than long; median constriction shallow, sinus wide
open with acute end; semicells depressed semi-circular, apex broadly convex,
basal angles mamillately thickened, narrowly rounded; entire cell wall covered by
wooly hairs; chloroplast with 2 pyrenoids.
Length: 59-60 µm. Breadth: 63-64 µm. Isthmus: 40-41 µm.
It looks like C. taxichondrum Lundell & C. obsoletum (Hantzsch) Reinsch in
general morphology but differs in,
1. Larger size
2. Broader isthmus region
3. Sinus wide open
4. Covering by wooly hairs.
Holotype No. DD-380, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
green scum in a swamp (pH 6, temp. 10ºC). Kept in the algae herbarium,
Department of Botany, The University of Burdwan (BURD).
66. Cosmarium sinostegos Schaarschmidt
(West & GS West 1908, p. 79, pl. 71, f. 39; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 286, pl. 220, f.
11, 12, 14)
[Pl. V, f. 159]
Cells small, about as broad as long; median constriction deep, sinus narrow;
semicells transversely elliptic, the lateral angles knob-like, converging to the
retuse apex, upper angles rounded; cell wall smooth.
Length: 8-10 µm. Breadth: 7-8 µm. Isthmus: 1-2 µm.
Our taxa differs from the original description in
1. Apex retuse
SYSTEMATIC PART
154
2. Cells less broad
otherwise, very similar to the typical.
Collection No. DD-488, 09.11.2009, Khechiperi Lake, Sikkim. In association
with blackish mass with weeds (Potamogeton sp.) lodged on roots (pH 6, temp.
14ºC).
Indian distribution: Bombay and Karnatak (Bharati 1966).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
67. Cosmarium subcrenatum Hantzsch
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 299, pl. 239, f. 7; Lenzenweger 1999, p. 150, pl. 63, f. 22)
[Pl. V, f. 158]
Cells small, slightly broader than long; median constriction deep; sinus narrow
and closed; semicells semi-circular with truncate apex; lateral margins convex and
converging to the apex having 6 low crenations, basal angles narrowly rounded;
face of the semicells with 3 concentric rows of small granules arranged at the
periphery leaving the median portion of the semicells smooth; chloroplast single
in each semcells with a central pyrenoid.
Length: 27-29 µm, Breadth: 28-30 µm, Isthmus: 10-11 µm.
Collection No. DD-379, 06.11.09, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
deep green filaments floating freely on the surface of water forming bloom (pH 6,
temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Nagpur (Freitas & Kamat
1979); Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh (Pandey & Pandey 1980); Pithoragarh
(Chaturvedi & Habib 1993); Nagpur, Maharashtra (Tarar et al. 1998); Kalimpong
(Santra & Pal 2006); Jashpur, Chhattisgarh (Toppo & Suseela 2009); Goalpara,
Assam (Deca et al. 2011).
68. Cosmarium subcucumis Schmidle var. subcucumis
(West & GS West 1905, p. 155, pl. 60, f. 1-3; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 301, pl. 169,
f. 4-6; Lenzenweger 1999, p. 67, pl. 47, f. 14, 15)
[Pl. V, f. 149-152]
Cells medium sized, 1.5-2 times longer than broad; median constriction deep, the
sinus linear, usually dilated toward the extremity; semicells semi-elliptic with
SYSTEMATIC PART
155
convex sides and rounded apex; chloroplast 2, axial, each with large pyrenoid; cell
wall smooth.
Length: 49-60 µm. Breadth: 29-33 µm. Isthmus: 13-23 µm.
Collection No. DD-415, 06.11.09, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
green filaments attached on the surface of the partially submerged rocks (pH 6,
temp. 10ºC). DD- 387, 06.11.09, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. Light green filaments
floating freely on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Maharashtra (Kamat 1963; Tarar et al. 1998); Kashmir
(Suxena & Venkateswarlu 1968b); Singbhum, Bihar (Das et al. 1990); Dhunti,
Ranchi (Das and Purti 1990); Southern Himachal Pradesh (Dwivedi et al. 2009).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
69. Cosmarium subphaseolanum sp. nov.
[Pl. VI, f. 179, 180]
Cells small, slightly longer than broad; median constriction deep, sinus narrow,
angular, dilated at the extremities; semicells narrowly reniform; basal angles
narrowly rounded, apex broadly rounded, flat in the midregion, face of the
semicells with a pair of small protuberance in the midregion on either side; cell
wall finely punctate, punctae minute; chloroplast axial with single pyrenoid.
Length: 18-19 µm, Breadth: 16-18 µm, Isthmus: 4-5 µm.
Present specimen very much similar to C. phaseolus Brébisson ex Ralfs but
differs,
1. Smaller in every respect
2. Face of the semicells with 2 protuberances instead of one.
Holotype No. DD-380, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
green scum in a swamp (pH 6, temp. 10ºC). Kept in the algae herbarium,
Department of Botany, The University of Burdwan (BURD).
70. Cosmarium subquadratum Nordstedt
(West & GS West 1908, p. 57, pl. 70, f. 5; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 311, pl. 210, f.
4; Lenzenweger 1999, p. 67, pl. 51, f. 24)
[Pl. III, f. 75]
SYSTEMATIC PART
156
Cells large, 2-2.5 times longer than broad; median constriction shallow, sinus
angularly open, wider at the exterior; semicells quadrate-pentahedral, the basal
angles narrowly rounded, the lateral margins parallel at first and then converging
to a flat apex; cell wall finely punctate; chloroplast axial with 2 pyrenoids in each
semicell.
Length: 81-83 µm, Breadth: 36-38 µm, Isthmus: 22-24 µm.
Collection No. DD-289, 12.05.2009, Backthong falls, Sikkim. In association with
phytoplankton with mosses on the rocks beside the falls (pH 6, temp. 15ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Kerala (Sekar et al. 2004).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
71. Cosmarium subtumidum Nordstedt
(West & GS West 1905, p. 192, pl. 63, f. 18-20; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 315, pl.
187, f. 4-7; Lenzenweger 1999, p. 68, pl. 49, f. 19)
[Pl. VI, f. 177, 178]
Cells medium sized, slightly longer than broad; median constriction deep, sinus
closed but open outwardly; semicells pyramidal with lateral margins broadly
convex, basal angles rounded, apical angles broad; apex broadly rounded; cell
wall irregularly and finely punctate.
Length: 21-22 µm, Breadth: 18-19 µm, Isthmus: 6-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-17, 16.04.2009, Pelling, Sikkim. In association with deep
green slimy filamentous mass in the margin fo a small water body (pH 6, temp.
19ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Amritsar, Punjab (Singh 1966);
Kashmir (Suxena & Venkateswarlu 1968b); Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat 1975);
Uttar Pradesh (Prasad & Mehrotra 1977); Nagpur (Freitas & Kamat 1979);
Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh (Pandey & Pandey 1980); Kashmir (Compère 1983);
Andhra Pradesh (Satya Mohan 1987); Singbhum, Bihar (Das et al. 1990);
Pithoragarh (Chaturvedi & Habib 1993); Jalgaon, North Maharashtra (Mahajan &
Nandan 2008); Goalpara, Assam (Deca et al. 2011).
72. Cosmarium tithophorum Nordstedt
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 329, pl. 175, f. 13, 14)
SYSTEMATIC PART
157
[Pl. VI, f. 196, 197]
Cells medium sized, slightly longer than broad; median constriction deep, sinus
widely open from a narrow apex; semicells transversely elliptic with basal angles
narrowly rounded, apex strongly rounded; face of the semicells with a mamilli in
the middle, cell wall otherwise smooth; chloroplast axial, single in each semicell.
Length: 21-22 µm, Breadth: 19-21 µm, Isthmus: 4-5 µm.
Collection No. DD-584, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with
greenish scum with wet mosses growing on soil (pH 6.5, temp. 15ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
73. Cosmarium transitorium (Heimerl) Ducellier
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 331, pl. 163, f. 1-3; Lenzenweger 1999, p. 71, pl. 47, f. 19)
[Pl. V, f. 146]
Cells medium sized, 1.3-1.4 times longer than broad; median constriction deep,
the sinus closed but wider in the outer part; semicells broadly elliptic; basal angles
narrowly rounded, apex conically rounded; cell wall with fine, dense punctae;
chloroplast axial with 2 pyrenoids in each semicell.
Length: 67-68 µm, Breadth: 49-51 µm, Isthmus: 25-26 µm.
Collection No. DD-194, 19.04.2009, Yoksum, Sikkim. In association with green
filament in a swamp (pH 5 temp. 19ºC). DD-284, 11.05.2009, Backthong falls,
Sikkim. In association with blackish mass of liverworts on the wet rock (pH 6,
temp. 15ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
74. Cosmarium trilobulatum Reinsch
(West & GS West 1905, p. 185, pl. 57, f. 28-30; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 331, pl.
183, f. 11-13; pl. 221, f. 8; Lenzenweger 1999, p. 86, pl. 52, f. 5)
[Pl. VI, f. 198]
Cell small, slightly longer than broad; median constriction deep, sinus closed,
linear; semicells with 3 lobes, basal lobes very slightly rounded, upper portion of
lateral margins retuse, apex flat, apical angles acute; cell wall irregularly and
finely punctate; chloroplast single with single pyrenoid in each semicells.
SYSTEMATIC PART
158
Length: 18-19 µm, Breadth: 16-18 µm, Isthmus: 6-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-583, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with
greenish-brown scum with mosses on a small rock pool (pH 6.5, temp. 14ºC).
Indian distribution: Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar 1969); Bombay &
Karnatak (Bharati 1966); Allahabad (Pandey & Pandey 1980); Kerala (Shaji et al.
1988); Gujarat (Kumar & Patel 1988); Hartala Lake, Maharashtra (Dhande &
Jawale 2009); Eastern Himalaya (Yasmin et al. 2011).
75. Cosmarium tyrolicum (Nordstedt) Krieger et Gerloff
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 339, pl. 165, f. 6 & pl. 116, f. 1; Lenzenweger 1999, p.
100, pl. 54, f. 1)
[Pl. IV, f. 114]
Cells large, about 1.2 times longer than broad, median constriction deep, the sinus
closed at the extremity then wider outwardly forming a V-shaped notch; semicells
semi-elliptic, basal angles rounded, apex truncate, lateral margins slightly convex
having 6 faint undulations in each side; cell wall punctate; chloroplast axile with 2
pyrenoids in each semicells.
Length: 70-71 µm, Breadth: 57-59 µm, Isthmus: 12-13 µm.
Collection No. DD-289, 12.05.2009, Backthong falls, Sikkim. In association with
mosses as phytoplankton on the wet rock (pH 6, temp. 15ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
76. Cosmarium undulatum Corda ex Ralfs var. alaskanum Croasdale f. reductum
Croasdale
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 340, pl. 167, f. 11)
[Pl. IV, f. 117-120]
Cell medium sized, 1.3-1.6 times longer than broad; median constriction deep,
sinus closed (sometimes open), linear; semicells pyramidal with convex lateral
walls; entire margins with apex undulate regularly, 8 undulations per semicell; cell
wall smooth.
Length: 24-38 µm, Breadth: 18-23 µm, Isthmus: 6-14 µm.
One specimen is bit smaller and another have sinus open than the typical but very
much similar in morphology.
SYSTEMATIC PART
159
Collection No. DD-379, 06.11.09, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
deep green filaments floating freely on the surface of water forming bloom (pH 6,
temp. 10ºC). DD-414, 06.11.09, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
green filamentous mass attached to the surface of the submerged aquatic plants
(pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
77. Cosmarium undulatum Corda ex Ralfs var. indicum var. nov.
[Pl. VI, f. 169, 170]
Cells of medium sized, 1.1-1.3 times longer than broad; median constriction deep,
sinus closed, dilated at the extremities; semicells semi-circular, slightly elongate;
lateral margins convex forming broadly rounded apex with 15-17 smooth, equal
undulations; basal angles acute; another 2 series of concentric undulations just
below the margin, face of the semicells with 4 concentric granules arranged semi-
circularly; semicells with single axial chloroplast with a median pyrenoid.
Length: 28-31 µm, Breadth: 23-26 µm, Isthmus: 14-15 µm.
Present specimen is similar in external morphology to C. undulatum Corda ex
Ralfs var. wollei West but differs in,
1. 4 granules at the face of the semicells in a ring
2. 2 rows of undulations just below the margin
3. Cell dimension small than the type.
Holotype No. DD-417, 06.11.09, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
greenish-brown scum on the surface of the wet rock (pH 6, temp. 10ºC). Kept in
the algae herbarium, Department of Botany, The University of Burdwan (BURD).
78. Cosmarium undulatum Corda ex Ralfs var. minutum Wittrock
(Prescott et al. 1981, p. 341, pl. 167, f. 7-9)
[Pl. VII, f. 209, 210]
Cells small, 1.2-1.3 times longer than broad; median constriction deep, sinus
closed linear; semicells sub-semicircular with lateral margins convex, apex flat,
apical angles rounded; entire margins including apex with faint undulations, 9
undulations in each semicells, cell wall smooth; chloroplast axial, single with a
median pyrenoids in each semicells.
SYSTEMATIC PART
160
Length: 16-36 µm, Breadth: 13-29 µm, Isthmus: 5-22 µm.
One specimen is smaller and other has a shallow isthmus than the typical,
otherwise very much similar in morphology with the typical.
Collection No. DD-380, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green scum in a swamp (pH 6, temp. 10ºC). DD-414, 06.11.09, Mamencho
Lake, Sikkim. In association with green filamentous mass attached to the surface
of the submerged aquatic plants (pH 6, temp. 10ºC). DD-396, 06.11.09,
Babamandir, Sikkim. In association with mosses on the rock under the stream (pH
6, temp. 8ºC). DD-714, 01.05.2010, Kalimpong. With phytoplankton sample
collected from a roadside water body (pH 6.5, temp. 25ºC).
Indian distribution: Simla, Himachal Pradesh (Kamat 1968b); Kashmir (Suxena
& Venkateswarlu 1968b); Maharashtra (Kamat 1963, 1974, 1975); Uttar Pradesh
(Prasad & Mehrotra 1977); Nagpur (Freitas & Kamat 1979); Nagpur, Maharashtra
(Tarar et al. 1998).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
79. Cosmarium undulatum Corda ex Ralfs var. wollei West
(West & GS West 1905, p. 150, pl. 59, f. 8-10; Prescott et al. 1981, p. 341, pl.
168, f. 13-15; Lenzenweger 1999, p. 102, pl. 53, f. 30)
[Pl. IV, f. 94, 95]
Cells medium sized, slightly longer than broad; median constriction deep, sinus
closed, narrowly linear with dilated extremities; semicells semi-circular with flat
apex; lateral walls convex, apical and basal angles rounded; margins of the
semicells faintly undulate; 21 undulations per semicells; cell wall smooth,
chloroplast axial, single with a median pyrenoids in each semicell.
Length: 31-37 µm, Breadth: 28-31 µm, Isthmus: 14-15 µm.
Collection No. DD-410, 06.11.09, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat 1975); Nagpur, Maharashtra
(Tarar et al. 1998).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
80. Cosmarium vittanum Turner
SYSTEMATIC PART
161
(Turner 1892, p. 53, pl. 8, f. 9)
[Pl. III, f. 81]
Cells medium sized, slightly longer than broad, median constriction deep, sinus
closed, dilated at the apex; broadly rounded, basal angles narrow, apex flatly-
rounded; margins undulate; face of the semicells with concentric series of small
smooth granules; chloroplast axial with a central pyrenoids.
Length: 27-29 µm, Breadth: 23-25 µm, Isthmus: 7-8 µm.
Collection No. DD-216, 10.05.2009, Changu Lake, Sikkim. In association with
mosses as phytoplankton lodged in a rock pool beside the Lake (pH 6, temp. 6ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Eastern Himalaya (Yasmin et
al. 2011).
81. Cosmarium yoksomum sp. nov.
[Pl. III, f. 79]
Cells large, 1.5 times longer than broad, median constriction deep, sinus narrow,
closed, dilated at the extremities; semicells semi-circular, lateral margins convex,
basal angles acute, apex broadly rounded; lateral wall closely teethed with low,
cone-shaped tooth, 20 in number, face of the semicells densely undulate with
definite vertical rows; chloroplast 2 in each semicells with a pyrenoid.
Length: 61-63 µm, Breadth: 41-42 µm, Isthmus: 14-15 µm.
Present specimen similar to C. brebissonii Meneghini ex Ralfs in morphology but
differs in,
1. Isthmus deep, dilate
2. Tooth smaller, blunt
3. Cell stouter
4. Basal angles acute
5. Semicells semicircular.
Holotype No. DD-191, 19.04.2009, Yoksum, Sikkim. In association with
phytoplankton sample under a rock pool beside a small falls (pH 5, temp. 18ºC).
Kept in the algae herbarium, Department of Botany, The University of Burdwan
(BURD).
SYSTEMATIC PART
162
V. Desmidium Agardh ex Ralfs
Cells of variable shape usually transversely narrowly oblong, oblong-semielliptical,
pyramidal-truncate or barrel-shaped usually broader than long, rarely as long as
broad, with a distinct moderately deep median constriction, sometimes completely
lacking; semicells in vertical view elliptic, with mamillate poles or 3-5 angled. Cells
united loosely to form twisted filaments, filaments sometimes embedded in a broad,
thick mucilaginous covering. Taxa those with elliptic vertical view attached to each
other usually by the close apposition of ridge-like thickening on adjacent apices and
in case of angular forms by short processes projecting from the apices of the cell, one
at each corner. Chloroplast axial, lobbed, single in each semicell with a single
pyrenoid in each chloroplast, chloroplast radiating from the center into each angle.
Cells always smooth-walled.
Key to the taxa investigated:
1. Cells triangular, with prominent isthmus……...…(1) D. aptogonum var. aptogonum
1. Cells tetrangular, with very faint isthmus
2. Cells longer than broad, isthmus region with no prominent undulation
………...…(3) D. baileyi var.tetragonum
2. Cells generally broader than long, isthmus region with faint undulations
` …………...…....(2) D. baileyi var. minus
1. Desmidium aptogonum Brébisson ex Archer var. aptogonum
(West et al. 1923, p. 242, pl. 164, f. 1-3; Croasdale et al. 1983, p. 39, pl. 463, f. 7,
8)
[Pl. XXVII, f. 446, 447]
Cells of medium sized, triangular, about 1.5 times longer than broad, median
constriction moderate, sinus open; semicells transversely oblong, with a small
basal swelling around isthmus, then narrowed to the apex which is broad and
concave in the midregion; apex produced at the angles to form connecting
processes.
SYSTEMATIC PART
163
Length: 15-20 µm, Breadth: 26-29 µm, Isthmus: 22-23 µm.
Collection No. DD-141, 18.04.2009, Khechiperi Lake, Sikkim. In association
with wet mosses on the banks of the Lake (pH 4, temp 17ºC).
Indian distribution: Kashmir (Compère 1983); Goalpara, Assam (Deca et al.
2011).
2. Desmidium baileyi (Ralfs) Nordstedt var. baileyi f. minus (Allorge et Allorge)
Bicudo
(Croasdale et al. 1983, p. 41, pl. 464, f. 10)
[Pl. XXVII, f. 448, 449]
Cells of medium size, slightly broader than long, faintly constricted, sinus reduced
to faint undulations; semicells rectangular, the lateral margins parallel; the apices
with a broad, deep semielliptic depression in the middle but produced at the angles
to form fairly long connecting processes so that a cavity of considerable size is left
between the adjacent cells; semicells in vertical view 4-angled.
Length: 14-15 µm, Breadth: 20-22 µm, Isthmus: 19-20 µm.
In gross morphology the present specimen resembles D. baileyi (Ralfs) Nordstedt
f. minus (Allorge et Allorge) Bicudo but differs in,
1. Larger dimension
2. Rectangular semicells with four tetra-radiate processes.
Collection No. DD-388, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with dark green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
3. Desmidium baileyi Nordstedt var. tetragonum Nordstedt
(Ling & Tyler 1986, p. 25, pl. 9, f. 11-13)
[Pl. XXVII, f. 450, 451]
Cells of medium size, about as long as broad; faintly constricted, sinus reduced to a
faint undulation; semicells rectangular, lateral margin parallel, the apices with a
broad, deep semi-elliptic depression in the middle, but produced at the angles to
form fairly long connecting processes which are 4 in number attached end to end
forming a cavity of considerable size left between the adjacent cells; chloroplast
axial, four radiate.
SYSTEMATIC PART
164
Length: 21-28 µm, Breadth: 22-23 µm.
Collection No. DD-387, 09.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp 10ºC). DD-715,
01.05.2010, Kalimpong, West Bengal. In association with wet mosses growing on
the bark of tree.
Indian distribution: Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar 1971); Uttar Pradesh
(Pandey & Pandey 1980); Karnataka (Bongle 1987); Sikkim (Santra & Pal 2006).
VI. Euastrum Ehrenberg ex Ralfs
Cells solitary, usually short, oval in outline with deep median constriction in the
middle and also a shallow or deep vertical notch in the apex in the apex, sometimes it
may be slightly retuse or straight. Semicells may be elliptical, oval or quadrate in
outline and are mostly with 3 distinct lobes, 2 basal lobes and a polar lobe. Sometimes
there are upper lateral lobules between polar and basal lobes. Cell wall smooth,
punctate, scrobiculate or variously ornamented with granules, verrucae or short spines
either on the face or on the margins of the lobes, Chloroplast single, axial with one or
several pyrenoids in each semicells.
Key to the taxa investigated:
1. Apical margins of the polar lobes with narrow, vertical incision
2. Apical angles of the cells with prominent spines or granules
3. Apical angles with small granules.............................(14) E. pseudocoralloides
3. Apical angles with prominent spines
4. Face of the semicells with circle of granules
5. Apex convex, undulate, face of the semicells with 5-6 big granules
circularly arranged with a median mucilage pore
………...(4) E. bidentatum var. oculatum
SYSTEMATIC PART
165
5. Apex flat, face of the semicells with a median small circle of relatively
small granules
6. Apex flat, face of the semicells with a single median small circle of 3
granules……………………….................(18) E. turnerii var. turnerii
6. Apex slightly elevated, face of the semicells with 2 circles of 4
granules each…………………...............(5) E. ciastonii var. ciastonii
4. Face of the semicells smooth, sometimes slightly elevated
7. Face of the semicells with 4 small granules, polar lobes produced
…...(7) E. denticulatum var. quadriferum
7. Face of the semicells smooth, slightly elevated median portion, polar
lobes less produced......(6) E. denticulatum var. denticulatum f. glabrum
2. Apical angles of the cells smooth
8. Cells dimension large, length more than 100 µm long
9. Face of the semicells with median basal protuberance downwardly directed
….................................(9) E. humerosum
9. Face of the semicells without any median ornamentation..(12) E. oblongum
8. Cell dimension relatively small, length less than 100 µm
10. Lateral margins with single, low protrusions
11. One small undulation present just below the basal, lateral and apical
angles, lateral margins retuse greatly, cell wall smooth
…..…(1) E. ampullaceum var. incavatum
11. No such ornamentation present on the face of the semicells, lateral
margins retuse slightly, cell wall coarsely punctate
...............(3) E. ansatum var. dideltiforme
10. Lateral margins without any protrusions
12. Face of the semicells with 3 basal protrusions, cell wall punctate
SYSTEMATIC PART
166
….................(2) E. ansatum var. ansatum
12. Face of the semicells with slight median swelling, cell wall smooth
…..........(11) E. obesum var. subangulare
1. Apical margins of the polar lobes only retuse slightly or flat but without having any
incision
13. Lateral margins without any lateral lobes, only retuse
14. Basal lobes narrowly rounded, not produced
....(10) E. lütkemülleri var. lütkemülleri
14. Basal lobes much produced, horizontally directed, broadly rounded
15. Face of the semicells with one circle of granules at the midregion
16. Apex retuse, sinus narrowly ‘V’-shaped
….....(13) E. platycerum var. eximium f. clausum
16. Apex flat, 3 undulate, sinus ‘U’-shaped................(8) E. diplostauron
15. Face of the semicells with 3 circles of granules, one at the midregion
and one smaller circle on each of the basal lobes
……………....(17) E. subhypochondrum
13. Lateral margins with single lateral lobes, upwardly directed
17. Cells nearly circular in outline, slightly longer than broad, basal angles
broadly rounded......................................(15) E. spinulosum var. spinulosum
17. Cells nearly undulate in outline, slightly broader than long, angles narrowly
rounded………………………………............(16) E. spinulosum var. lindae
1. Euastrum ampullaceum Ralfs var. incavatum Turner
(Turner 1892, p. 78, pl. 10, f. 59)
[Pl. XXVIII, f. 476, 477]
Cells medium sized, narrowly elliptic in outline, 1.7-1.8 times longer than broad;
semicells truncate-pyramidal, the polar lobes short, slightly divergent, apex flat
SYSTEMATIC PART
167
with rounded angles, median notch short, narrow; lateral margins concave,
diverging to the polar lobes; basal lobes broad, slightly bi-lobed; sinus deep, ‘V’-
shaped; face of the semicells with 6 protuberances, just below the polar and basal
lobes; cell wall smooth.
Length: 65-67 µm, Breadth: 36-38 µm, Isthmus: 22-23 µm.
Collection No. DD-380, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green scum in a swamp (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
2. Euastrum ansatum Ehrenberg ex Ralfs var. ansatum
(Krieger 1937, p. 485, pl. 58, f. 1-3; Prescott et al 1977, p. 15, pl. 63, f. 6, 6a, 7f,
8; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 74, pl. 9, f. 1)
[Pl. XXVIII, f. 475]
Cells medium sized, narrowly oval in shape, about 2 times longer than broad;
semicells triangular shaped; sinus closed, deep; basal angles broadly rounded,
lateral margins then converging to a truncate apex with rounded angles; apical
notch short and closed; cell wall finely punctate; face of the semicells with 3 small
protrusions at the base.
Length: 70-72 µm, Breadth: 34-36 µm, Isthmus: 16-16 µm.
Collection No. DD-380, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green scum in a swamp (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); West Bengal (Mukherjee &
Srivastava 1993); Muriyad, Kerala (Sanilkumar & Thomas 2006); Goalpara,
Assam (Deca et al. 2011).
3. Euastrum ansatum Ehrenberg ex Ralfs var. dideltiforme Ducellier
(West & GS West 1905, p. 27, pl. 36, f. 10-13; Krieger 1937, p. 488, pl. 58, f. 8;
Prescott et al. 1977, p. 17, pl. 59, f. 15, 15a)
[Pl. XXVIII, f. 472]
Cells medium sized, narrowly oval in outline, about 2 times longer than broad;
semicells triangular-pyramidal in shape, sinus closed, dilated at the extremities,
deep; basal angles broadly rounded, lateral margins forming low, rounded lateral
SYSTEMATIC PART
168
lobes, then converging to flat apex with rounded angles; apical notch short,
narrow; face of the semicells with 3 low basal swellings and one mucilage pore on
either side at the midregion; cell wall finely punctate.
Length: 84-86 µm, Breadth: 44-46 µm, Isthmus: 9-10 µm.
Collection No. DD-380, 06.11.2009 Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
green scum in a swamp (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar et al. 1979); West Bengal
(Mukherjee & Srivastava 1993).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
4. Euastrum bidentatum Nageli var. oculatum (Istvanffi) Krieger
(Krieger 1937, p. 603, pl. 85, f. 7; Prescott et al. 1977, p. 22, pl. 77, f. 9)
[Pl. XXVIII, f. 478]
Cells medium sized; broadly oval in outline, 1.5 times longer than broad;
semicells semicircular; isthmus deep, sinus closed; lateral margins undulate, basal
lobes bi-lobed, upper basal lobules slightly produced than the lower one and
posses blunt tooth-like projection; upper lobes rounded, less produced, short,
apical angles extended into similar tooth-like process, apical margins broad,
slightly convex and undulate, apical notch short, angularly open; lateral margins
between upper and basal lobes retuse; face of the semicells with median bulging
bearing several large granules in circular arrangement; mucilage pores present
above the granules; cell wall otherwise smooth.
Length: 55-62 µm, Breadth: 34-39 µm, Isthmus: 12-14 µm.
Collection No. DD-379, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with deep green filamentous mass floating freely on the surface of water bloom
(pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
5. Euastrum ciastonii Raciborski var. ciastonii
(Krieger 1937, p. 607, pl. 84, f. 16-18; Prescott et al. 1977, p. 31, pl. 78, f. 6, 6a)
[Pl. XXVIII, f. 479, 480]
Cells medium sized, rectangular in outline, 1-1.5 times longer than broad; basal
lobes broadly rounded with several small teeth, lateral margins retuse to the polar
SYSTEMATIC PART
169
lobes which is slightly inflated, apical margin slightly elevated to a deep and
narrow median incision, apical angles with a short, sharp spine; face of the
semicells with 2 circles of 4 granules; both the upper and lower lobes having a
patch of sub-marginal granules; isthmus deep, sinus angular, open; rest of the cell
wall smooth.
Length: 42-44 µm, Breadth: 29-32 µm, Isthmus: 6-7 µm.
The present specimen appears more or less close to the type.
Collection No. DD- 419, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with greenish-yellow filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
6. Euastrum denticulatum (Kirchner) Gay var. denticulatum f. glabrum Prescott
(Prescott et al. 1977, p. 40, pl. 75, f. 7f)
[Pl. XXVIII, f. 488, 489]
Cells small, about 1.5 times longer than broad, sub-rectangular in outline; sinus
moderate, closed; semicells truncate-pyramidal in shape; basal lobes broad with
undulate margins; apical lobes short with subparallel margins, less prominently
produced than the typical, apex truncate, angles narrow, furnished with a short
spine, upper median notch small, angularly open, upper lateral margins undulate;
face of the semicells with low median swelling with a mucilage pore; cell wall
smooth.
Length: 22-23 µm, Breadth: 15-16 µm, Isthmus: 7-9 µm.
Collection No. DD-389, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with light green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
7. Euastrum denticulatum (Kirchner) Gay var. quadrifarium Krieger
(Krieger 1937, p. 585, pl. 80, f. 20, 21; Prescott et al. 1977, p. 42, pl. 75, f. 9)
[Pl. XXVIII, f. 483, 484]
Cells small, 1.5-1.6 times longer than broad, sub-rectangular in outline, semicells
sub-quadrate; sinus closed; basal lobes little undulate, parallel; lateral margins
with a median notch, apical lobes slightly produced, angles with a short, blunt
SYSTEMATIC PART
170
spine; apex flat, upper median sinus deep, angular; upper basal lobes with small
granules; face of the semicells with 4 small granules, one in each lobe.
Length: 25-26 µm, Breadth: 16-17 µm, Isthmus: 4-5 µm.
Collection No. DD-585, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. With phytoplankton
sample collected from a small waterfall (pH 6.5, temp. 15ºC).
Indian distribution: Kerala (Shaji et al. 1988); Pithoragarh (Chaturvedi & Habib
1993).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
8. Euastrum diplostauron Skuja
(Skuja 1949, p. 112; Ling & Tyler 1986, p. 27, pl. 18, f. 28)
[Pl. XXVIII, f. 485, 486]
Cells small, 1-1.2 times broader than long, shaped transversely quadrate; isthmus
deep, sinus open, broad; semicells with much produced basal lobes, horizontally
directed and furnished with several short, blunt teeth, slightly divergent; polar
lobe short, much reduced, angles narrow, apex flat, 3-undulate; face of the
semicells with a central circle of 4 granules, relatively small granules present just
below the basal lobes, usually 3 in number; cell wall otherwise smooth.
Length: 20-21 µm, Breadth: 24-25 µm, Isthmus: 6-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-583, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with
greenish-brown scum with mosses on a small rock pool (pH 6.5, temp. 14ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
9. Euastrum humerosum Ralfs
(West & GS West 1905, p. 8, pl. 34, f. 1, 2; Krieger 1937, p. 524, pl. 69, f. 4-6;
Prescott et al. 1977, p. 63, pl. 63, f. 7, 7a; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 83, pl. 9, f. 12)
[Pl. XXVIII, f. 463]
Cells large, broadly oval in outline, above 2 times longer than broad; sinus deep,
closed; semicells sub-pyramidal in outline; basal lobes bi-lobed with broadly
rounded angles; lateral margins retuse, forming ‘U’-shaped notch, then
converging into 2 lateral lobules somewhat upwardly directed and again forming a
narrow notch then forming broad convex apex with relatively narrowly rounded
SYSTEMATIC PART
171
apical angles, apical notch short, closed; face of the semicells with a broad basal
swelling downwardly directed; cell wall finely punctate.
Length: 148-157 µm, Breadth: 68-74 µm, Isthmus: 15-18 µm.
Collection No. DD-415, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with greenish-brown scum attached to the surface of the wet rock (pH 6, temp.
10ºC). DD-470, 09.11.2009, Rimbi river, Sikkim. In association with dark brown
scum submerged in a rock pool beside the river (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
10. Euastrum lütkemülleri Ducellier var. lütkemülleri
(Krieger 1937, p. 560, pl. 80, f. 1-4; Prescott et al. 1977, p. 81, pl. 72, f. 2, 2a;
Lenzenweger 1996, p. 85, pl. 10, f. 19)
[Pl. XXVIII, f. 490, 491]
Cells small, truncate oval in outline, 1.5 times longer than broad; semicells
truncate-pyramidal, the basal lobes narrowly rounded at the angles, the margins
retuse and converging to the apex; polar lobe scarcely evident; angles of the polar
lobe bluntly pointed, the apical margin flat but retuse at the midregion; face of the
semicells with a broad, low protuberance; sinus narrow and low throughout;
lateral margins retuse at the midregion; cell wall smooth.
Length: 10-12 µm, Breadth: 15-17 µm, Isthmus: 6-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-380, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green scum in a swamp (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar 1971).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
11. Euastrum obesum Jashua var. subangulare West et GS West
(Krieger 1937, p. 497, pl. 59, f. 14; Prescott et al. 1977, p. 84, pl. 60, f. 5, 5a, 10)
[Pl. XXVIII, f. 473, 474]
Cells medium sized, narrowly elliptic in outline; above 2 times longer than broad;
sinus deep, closed; semicells pyramidal with truncate apex; basal lobes narrowly
rounded, apical angles rounded, median notch short, narrow; lateral margins
SYSTEMATIC PART
172
retuse slightly then converging at the apex; median swelling less prominent; cell
wall smooth.
Length: 84-87 µm, Breadth: 38-40 µm, Isthmus: 10-11 µm.
Collection No. DD-71, 17.04.2009, Legship, Sikkim. In association with black
scum on the rocks under the stream (pH 5, temp. 23ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
12. Euastrum oblongum (Greville) Ralfs
(West & GS West 1905, p. 12, pl. 34. f. 7-9, pl. 15, f. 2; Krieger 1937, p. 527, pl.
70, f. 7, 8; Prescott et al. 1977, p. 84, pl. 65, f. 4; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 86, pl. 10,
f. 4)
[Pl. XXVIII, f. 462]
Cells large, broadly oval in outline, about 2 times longer than broad; semi cells
broadly oval in outline with a broad, truncate base; basal lobe sub-rectangular at
the margin, bi-lobed and shoulder-like, a deep incision between the basal lobe and
a bi-lobed upper lateral lobule and a narrow, deep incision between the upper
lateral lobules and the polar lobe; polar lobe anvil-shaped, the angles narrowly
rounded; the apical margin convex, with a deep, narrow median incision; sinus
narrow and closed; face of the semicells with a supra-isthmial protuberance near
the mid region of the semicell, with a central mucilage pore.
Length: 186-190 µm, Breadth: 100-103 µm, Isthmus: 38-39 µm, Apex: 54-61 µm.
Collection No. DD-416, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with brownish scum attached to the surface of the submerged part of the semi
aquatic plants (pH 6, temp. 10ºC). DD-408, 06.11.2009, Changu Lake, Sikkim. In
association with dark green mat like structure on the surface of the water (pH 6,
temp. 9ºC).
Indian distribution: Kashmir (Suxena & Venkateswarlu 1968b); Bareilly, Uttar
Pradesh (Habib 1994).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
13. Euastrum platycerum Reinsch var. eximium Gronblad et Scott f. clausum
Gronblad et Scott
(Prescott et al. 1977, p. 95, pl. 81, f. 9)
SYSTEMATIC PART
173
[Pl. XXVIII, f. 464, 465]
Cells medium sized, 1-1.25 times longer than broad; isthmus deep, sinus narrow,
open outwardly with small extensions of the basal lobes which is broadly rounded;
the lateral margins having shoulder-like incision between the basal and polar lobes
which is slightly divergent; apical angles narrowly rounded and furnished with
short blunt spines; apical margins slightly retuse in the midregion, basal lobes
with similar short spines greater in number; face of the semicells with a circle of
small granules; cell wall with a scattering of granules just below the apical and
basal lobes; cell wall otherwise smooth.
Length: 43-46 µm, Breadth: 41-45 µm, Isthmus: 8-9 µm.
The present specimen is bit smaller than the type.
Collection No. DD-379, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with Deep green filamentous mass floating freely on the surface of water bloom
(pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
14. Euastrum pseudocorralloides Fritsch
(Krieger 1937, p. 587, pl. 81, f. 1-3; Prescott et al. 1977, p. 98, pl. 74, f. 25)
[Pl. XXVIII, f. 487]
Cells small, nearly rectangular in outline, 1-1.3 times longer than broad; semicells
sub-quadrate in outline, basal lobes bi-lobed, rounded; lateral margins retuse
deeply then formed little divergent upper lobes, lateral angles of upper lobes with
single mucro; apical margins slightly convex with a shallow ‘V’-shaped median
notch; face of the semicells with a small median protuberance; cell wall smooth;
sinus narrow, closed, isthmus deep.
Length: 25-29 µm, Breadth: 22-23 µm, Isthmus: 5-8 µm.
Collection No. DD-396, 06.11.2009, Babamandir, Sikkim. In association with
mosses on the rocks under the water (pH 6, temp. 8ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
15. Euastrum spinulosum Delponte var. spinulosum
(Krieger 1937, p. 633, pl. 93, f. 1-3; Prescott et al. 1977, p. 107, pl. 81, f. 10)
[Pl. XXVIII, f. 466, 467]
SYSTEMATIC PART
174
Cells medium sized, nearly circular in outline, 1-1.2 times longer than broad;
semicells broadly oval transversely, basal angles broadly rounded and produced;
margins with a sinus between the basal lobes and equal sized upper, lateral lobes,
with a short crown like polar lobe, the angles rounded, the apical margins slightly
retuse in the midregion, margins of all the lobes with short, sharp spine like
granules and with patterns of similar spines on the face of the lobules; face of the
semicells with a broad central protuberance bearing a circular pattern of large
granules; wall smooth otherwise; sinus narrow and closed within, opening slightly
at the outer extremities.
Length: 40-59 µm, Breadth: 34-51 µm, Isthmus: 9-13 µm.
Collection No. DD-379, DD-381, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In
association with deep green filamentous mass floating freely on the surface of
water bloom (pH 6, temp. 10ºC). DD-788, 10.11.2011, Lolegaon, West Bangal.
Wet blakish brown powdery mass on the bark of a tree (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat 1975); Marathwada,
Maharashtra (Asthekar & Kamat 1979); Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh (Pandey &
Pandey 1980); Kashmir (Compère 1983); Udalkachar, Madhya Pradesh (Habib
1991); Nagpur, Maharashtra (Tarar et al. 1998); Shillong, Meghalaya (Gupta
2002); Siddharth Nagar, Uttar Pradesh (Prakash et al. 2005); Uttarakhand (Misra
et al. 2007); Jalgaon, North Maharashtra (Mahajan & Nandan 2008); Amarkantak,
Madhya Pradesh (Suseela & Toppo 2010); Goalpara, Assam (Deca et al. 2011);
Kangra, Himachal Pradesh (Kumar et al. 2012).
16. Euastrum spinulosum Delponte var. lindae Gronblad et Scott
(Prescott et al. 1977, p. 108, pl. 82, f. 8)
[Pl. XXVIII, f. 468, 469]
Cells medium sized, nearly quadrate in shape, 1.2-1.3 times longer than broad;
sinus closed, deep; basal angles narrowly rounded and produced; lateral margins
retuse forming ‘V’-shaped notch and forming narrowly rounded lateral lobes,
upwardly directed; apical lobes more produced than the typical; narrow, angular
sinus between the polar and lateral lobes; apex slightly retuse near the midregion;
all of the lobes furnished with several short blunt spines, face of the lobes also
SYSTEMATIC PART
175
bear similar spines scatteredly disposed; face of the semicells with a median circle
of granules stacked on a low protuberance; cell wall otherwise smooth.
Length: 63-67 µm, Breadth: 48-53 µm, Isthmus: 13-15 µm.
Collection No. DD-389, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with light green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
17. Euastrum subhypochondrum Fritsch et Rich
(Coesel 2000, p. 264, f. 2E, 3E, 4K)
[Pl. XXVIII, f. 470, 471]
Cells medium sized; slightly longer than broad; isthmus deep, sinus narrowly ‘V’-
shaped; basal lobes rounded, produced, horizontally directed; lateral margins with
deep, right angled shoulder-like incision between basal and apical lobes; apical
margins slightly undulate, apical angles narrow, bearing 2 stout blunt spines; basal
lobes bears similar spines but greater in numbers; small granules scatterdly
deposited on the terminal face of basal and apical lobes; face of the semicells with
a median circle of slightly broad granules in two concentric series and 2 relatively
small circular patch of small granules on either side of each basal lobes; cell wall
smooth otherwise.
Length: 50-55 µm, Breadth: 47-50 µm, Isthmus: 14-15 µm.
Collection No. DD-26, 16.04.2009, Pelling, Sikkim. In association with blue-
green mass in a drain (pH 5.5, temp. 21ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
18. Euastrum turnerii West var. turnerii
(West & GS West 1905, p. 37, pl. 37, f. 9, 10; Krieger 1937, p. 91, pl. 11, f. 22, p.
589, pl. 82, f. 20, 21; Prescott et al. 1977, p. 113, pl. 75, f. 16)
[Pl. XXVIII, f. 481, 482]
Cells small, truncate-oval in outline, 1-1.3 times longer than broad; semicells
truncate-pyramidal in shape, basal angles bi-undulate, lateral walls retuse in the
midregion then converging to polar lobes; upper lateral angles with single short
stout spine; lateral lobules bears small spines; apical margins flat containing a
median ‘U’-shaped sinus; face of the semicells with a median protuberance
SYSTEMATIC PART
176
bearing a circle of 3 median sized granules; basal and apical lobes each bears
several small granules; cell wall smooth.
Length: 29-32 µm, Breadth: 23-25 µm, Isthmus: 3-4 µm.
Collection No. DD-35, 16.04.2009, Pelling, Sikkim. With phytoplankton sample
collected from a small Lake (pH 5, temp. 20ºC). DD-846, 12.11.2011, Chage falls,
Lava. With phytoplankton sample collected from the falls (pH 6, temp. 17ºC).
Indian distribution: Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat 1975); Goalpara, Assam
(Deca et al. 2011).
VII. Genicularia de Bary
Cells solitary, sometimes loosely attached end to end immediate after dividing
forming short filament, cylindrical, elongate with truncate apices. Median constriction
absent, cell wall minutely granulate. Chloroplast 2-3, parietal, narrow, spiral bands,
pyrenoids numerous, lying in a series.
1. Genicularia elegans West et GS West
(West & GS West 1904, p. 36, pl. 5, f. 1, 2; Prescott et al. 1972, p. 32, pl. 6, f. 31,
32)
[Pl. XXVII, f. 453, 454]
Cells cylindrical, straight, elongate, 23-38 times longer than broad; lateral walls
parallel, slightly diverging near the apex; apex broadly truncate, cell wall smooth;
chloroplast 2, parietal, spirally coiled bands, pyrenoids 8, in a series.
Length: 151-185 µm. Breadth: 4-8 µm. Apex: 5-9 µm.
Collection No. DD-380, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake Sikkim. In association with
greenish-yellow filaments on the surface of the water forming scum (pH 6, temp.
10ºC). DD-12, 16.04.2009, small Lake, Pelling. With phytoplankton samples
collected from the Lake (pH 5, temp. 19ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
VIII. Gonatozygon de Bary
SYSTEMATIC PART
177
Cells solitary, medium sized to large, cylindrical, to narrowly fusiform (7-40 times
longer than broad) with truncate to sub-capitate apex. Lateral wall nearly parallel,
sometimes slightly diverging toward the apex. Cell wall smooth or with scattered
granules, setae or spines, nearly with girdle bands. Cell wall two layered. Chloroplast
single in each semicell, axial, ribbon-like with a row of 4-16 pyrenoids.
Key to the taxa investigated:
1. Cells without spines
2. Cell wall punctate
2. Cell wall smooth..…………………………….…….……………(2) G. kinahani
3. Cells stout, 15-16 µm broad, 9-10 tomes longer than broad
……(4)G. monotaenium var. monotaenium f. punctatum
3. Cells relatively slender, 7-8 µm broad, more than 10 times (12-14 times)
longer than broad…...…...(3) G. monotaenium var. monotaenium f. minutum
1. Cell wall with short hair-like spines…..……………………………(1) G. aculeatum
1. Gonatozygon aculeatum Hastings
(Prescott et al. 1972, p. 33, pl. 8, f. 13-15; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 15, pl. 1, f. 3)
[Pl. XXVII, f. 457]
Cells medium sized, cylindrical, 12-17 times longer than broad; lateral wall
straight, parallel only very slightly diverging at the poles; apices truncate but
slightly dilated with the apical angles slightly rounded; cell wall densely covered
with small, sharp, erect spines but poles are spine-less; chloroplast axial with 7
pyrenoids.
Length: 114-116 µm, Breadth: 7-9 µm, Apex: 9-10 µm.
Collection No. DD-490, 09.11.2009 Khechiperi Lake, Sikkim. In association with
green filaments growing attached on pebbles & submerged weeds (pH 6.5, temp.
14°C).
SYSTEMATIC PART
178
Indian distribution: Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat 1975); Allahabad (Pandey &
Pandey 1980); Karnataka and Goa (Bharti & Hegde 1982a); Kalimpong (Santra &
Pal 2006).
2. Gonatozygon kinahani (Archer) Rabenhorst
(West & GS West 1904, p. 35, pl. 2, f. 1-3; Prescott et al. 1972, p. 35, pl. 7, f. 1-4;
Lenzenweger 1996, p. 16, pl. 1, f. 1)
[Pl. XXVII, f. 460, 461]
Cells cylindrical, slightly curved, 11-12 times longer than broad; apices truncate,
angles rounded; lateral margins parallel; chloroplast with 6 longitudinal ridges, 10
pyrenoids in a series; cell wall smooth, colourless.
Length: 192-198 µm, Breadth: 16-17 µm, Apex: 16-18 µm.
Collection No. DD-212, 10.05.2009, Changu Lake, Sikkim. In association with
submerged weeds growing beside the Lake (pH 6, temp 6ºC). DD-111,
18.04.2009, Khechiperi Lake, Sikkim. In association with light green filaments
floating freely on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp 10ºC). DD-756,
10.11.2011, Lava, West Bengal. In association with green filaments floats freely
on the surface of a small water body (pH 6, temp 17ºC) .
Indian distribution: Kodaikanal, Tamilnadu (Iyengar & Vimla Bai 1941);
Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat 1975); Savandurga, Karnataka (Gurudeva et al.
1983); Rohilkhand, Uttar Pradesh (Habib 1993); Pilibhit, Uttar Pradesh (Habib
1997); Muriyad, Kerala (Sanilkumar & Thomas 2006); Kalimpong (Santra & Pal
2006); Eastern Himalaya (Yasmin et al. 2011).
3. Gonatozygon monotaenium de Bary var. monotaenium f. minutum Cushman
(Prescott et al. 1972, p. 36,)
[Pl. XXVII, f. 455, 456]
Cells small, cylindrical, 11-12 times longer than broad; lateral wall parallel and
straight; apex broadly rounded; cell wall minutely and densely granular, granules
irregularly arranged and variable; chloroplast axial, pyrenoids 7 in number.
Length: 105-112 µm, Breadth: 9-10 µm, Apex: 6-8 µm.
SYSTEMATIC PART
179
Collection No. DD-490, 09.11.2009, Khechiperi Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filaments growing attached on pebbles & submerged weeds (pH 6.5,
temp. 14°C).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
4. Gonatozygon monotaenium de Bary var. monotaenium f. punctatum Croasdale
(Prescott et al. 1972, p. 36, pl. 7, f. 13)
[Pl. XXVII, f. 458, 459]
Cells stout, 9-10 times longer than broad, cylindrical; lateral wall parallel, straight;
apex truncate-rounded; chloroplast single, axial plate with 7 pyrenoids; cell wall
punctate.
Length: 145-148 µm, Breadth: 15-16 µm, Apex: 16-18 µm.
Collection No. DD-418, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with light green filaments floats freely on the water (pH 6, temp 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
IX. Haplotaenium Bando
Cells solitary, cylindrical, elongate with a slightly constricted in the middle; semicells
with very slight basal swelling or sometimes absent; apex truncately rounded, rarely
retuse; cell apex without terminal vacuoles or any granules; cell wall generally
smooth or finely punctate. Chloroplast single, axial or band-like with irregular
longitudinal lamellae having 2-15 pyrenoids arranged in a central row.
1. Haplotaenium minutum (Ralfs) Bando var. gracile (Wille) Bando
(Bando 1988, p. 25, f. 14, 36)
[Pl. XXVII, f. 452]
Cells cylindrical, solitary, elongate, 16-18 times longer than broad; median
constriction very slight, having a minute notch; lateral margins parallel and very
slightly tapering at the apex, apex rounded-truncate; cell wall minutely punctate,
punctae arranged in oblique series.
Length: 181-184 µm, Breadth: 10-11 µm, Apex: 9-10 µm.
SYSTEMATIC PART
180
Collection No. DD-588, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with aquatic
weeds attached on the wet rock beside a small water fall (pH 6.5, temp. 15ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
X. Hyalotheca Ehrenbarg ex Ralfs
Cells cylindrical or sub-cylindrical, united to form un-branched filament by their
broad truncated apices, filaments sometimes twisted and sometimes embedded in a
broad gelatinous sheath. Cells very slightly constricted at the middle or sometimes
constriction absent. Semicells trapezoid, sub-quadrate or transversely oblong with
straight or slightly convex lateral margins. Chloroplast axial, single with median
pyrenoid in each semicells. Cell wall smooth or having granules.
Key to the taxa investigated:
1. Cells constricted in the middle, cell wall not having any ornamentation
2. Sinus an acute notch.....................................................(2) H. dissiliens var. hians
2. Sinus with very slight annular depression.............(1) H. dissiliens var. dissiliens
1. Cells not constricted in the mid-region, with 2 parallel transverse series of tiny
granules immediately beneath the apex of the semicells.....................(3) H. mucosa
1. Hyalotheca dissiliens (Smith) Brébisson ex Ralfs var. dissiliens f. dissiliens
(West et al. 1923, p. 229, pl. 156, f. 16-27; Croasdale et al. 1983, p. 28, pl. 460, f.
6-12; Lenzenweger 1997, p. 140, pl. 43, f. 1, 2)
[Pl. XXVII, f. 440-443]
Cells united by broadly truncate apices to form long filamentous colonies; cells of
the colony are small, 14-17 µm long 26-29 µm broad, very faintly constricted,
sinus showing as a very slightly annular depression in the middle of the lateral
margins; semicells cylindrical-discoidal, the lateral margin slightly convex, the
apices broadly truncate; semicells in vertical view cylindrical; chloroplast axial,
one in each semicell, usually with a central pyrenoid, and several radiating ridges
flattened at extremities, greenish-brown in colour.
SYSTEMATIC PART
181
Length: 14-17 µm, Breadth: 26-29 µm, Isthmus: 25-27 µm.
No. DD-413, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association with light
greenish-yellow filaments attached on the surface of the wet rock (pH 6, temp
10ºC). DD-777, 10.11.2011, Lolegaon, West Bengal. In association with
mucilaginous masses growing on the wet rocks (pH 6, temp. 20ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Kodaikanal, Tamilnadu
(Iyengar & Vimla Bai 1941); Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat 1975); Madhya
Pradesh (Agarker & Agarkar 1977); Marathwada, Maharashtra (Asthekar &
Kamat 1979); Nagpur (Freitas & Kamat 1979); Kashmir (Compère 1983);
Shillong, Meghalaya (Rout & Gaur 1994); Nagpur, Maharashtra (Tarar et al.
1998); Sikkim, Kalimpong (Santra & Pal 2006); Goalpara, Assam (Deca et al.
2011); Mamencho Lake, Sikkim (Das & Keshri 2012).
2. Hyalotheca dissiliens Brébisson var. hians Wolle
(West et al. 1923, p. 234, pl. 157, f. 16-18; Croasdale et al. 1983, p. 29, pl. 461, f.
2, 3)
[Pl. XXVI, f. 438, 439]
Cells small, 1.6-2 times broader than long; sinus showing an acute median incision
or notch in the middle of the lateral margins; semicells cylindrical-discoidal,
lateral margins convex, the apices broadly truncate, semicells in vertical view
circular; cells attached loosely end to end forming long filaments, filament
conspicuously constricted at the joints; chloroplast axial, with several radiating
ridges.
Length: 16-18 µm, Breadth: 25-27 µm, Isthmus: 25-26 µm, Thickness: 25-27 µm.
Collection No. DD-379, 06.11.2009, Khechiperi Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Nagpur, Maharashtra (Tarar et al. 1998).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
3. Hyalotheca mucosa (Mertins) Ehrenberg ex Ralfs
(West et al. 1923, p. 235, pl. 157, f. 1-4; Croasdale et al. 1983, p. 30, pl. 461, f. 6-
8; Lenzenweger 1997, p. 141, pl. 43, f. 5)
[Pl. XXVII, f. 444, 445]
SYSTEMATIC PART
182
Cells small, slightly longer than broad, attached end to end to form short filament;
devoid of any indication of constriction, very slightly constricted at the joints;
semicells transversely sub-rectangular, lateral margins nearly parallel, very
convex with upper angles broadly rounded; apex broad and truncate; cell wall
smooth except 2 parallel, transverse series of tiny granules just beneath the apices.
Length: 15-18 µm, Breadth: 12-14 µm.
The present specimen tallies in some respect with H. laevicinata Taylor. It appears
that such forms are intermediate between H. mucosa & H. laevicinata. However
since the form is closer to H. mucosa it has been placed in it.
Collection No. DD-384, 05.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake Sikkim. In association with
aquatic weeds submerged in the water (pH 6, temp 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat
1975).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
XI. Micrasterias Agardh ex Ralfs
The genus Micrasterias is characterized by relatively flattened disc and radiating often
having deeply dissected lobes, showing bilateral and bipolar symmetry. A deep,
usually narrow, sometimes open median sinus divides the cell into two semicells,
which are again divided into 3 lobes: a polar lobe and 2 lateral lobes. The polar lobe
forms the apex of the cell and may be at its summit, flat, slightly rounded, depressed
or shallowly notch, but it is not further divided, although its upper lateral extremities
may be variously drawn out, not processes which are sometimes referred to as polar
lobes or lobules. In case of M. foliacea cells are united by the interlocking of the polar
lobes forming filaments. The lateral lobes are in most species are divided into lobules
and are vary in the angles and number of incisions, in some species the incisions are
horizontal, parallel to the sinus but in majority of species the incisions are radial. The
first divisions of a lateral lobe results in an upper and lower lateral lobules, this
referred to as ‘once divided’ or ‘first order division’. In many cases these lobules are
again divided into further smaller and shallower incisions described respectively as
‘second order division’, ‘third order division’ and so on. The divided processes shape
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183
varies from stout to narrow, long to short etc. and ultimate divisions are usually
excavated or uni-dentate to tri-dentate or some other conditions may exist.
The cells are filled although not entirely with a single axial lobed chloroplast centered
by a single nucleus at the center of the cell, opposite both the sinus and show several
to many pyrenoids scattered into the chloroplast. The chloroplast is not extended to
the inner end wall of each process.
The cell walls are always thin, bi-layered. In maximum species cell wall smooth,
sometimes with granules, scrobicules, punctae or even teeth on the outer margin of
the cell wall is present.
Semicells in vertical view are generally narrowly fusiform, sometimes showing a
small central protuberance; in lateral view cells narrowly tapering from a slightly
swollen median portion.
Key to the taxa investigated:
1. Polar lobes broad, without well marked median incision, apex sometimes slightly
retuse
2. Polar lobe with accessory processes…….…………….(5) M. mahabuleswarensis
2. Polar lobe without accessory processes.
3. Apex retuse, cell wall with marginal spines…………...………..(8) M. tropica
3. Apex flatly convex, cell wall smooth
4. Lateral lobes truncate, furnished with single spine, downwardly directed
…………………...….…(9) M. zeylanica
4. Lateral lobes swollen at the base, then converging into two upwardly
directed teeth……………………………………...……...(6) M. pinnatifida
1. Polar lobes less broad with median incision of variable depth, apex strongly retuse
5. Lateral lobes once divided, apical and lateral angles furnished with with long,
blunt spines……………………………………………………..(3) M. ceratofera
5. Lateral lobes more than once divided, apical and lateral angles with processes,
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sometimes denticulate, rather with spines
6. Cells square in outline; lateral lobes divided more than second order, united in
filaments by the interlocking of the polar lobes…………......…(4) M. foliacea
6. Cells more or less circular in outline, lateral lobes divided twice, not united
into filaments
7. Secondary lateral incisions deep, extending more than halfway than the
sinus, lobules swollen at the base, then abruptly and narrowly tapering to
tri-dentate extremities
8. Cell wall smooth, shorter, 104-108 µm in length…………….(1) M. alata
8. Cell wall granulate, longer, 126-130 µm in length…....(2) M. alata forma
7. Secondary lateral incision moderately deep, extending not more than
halfway than sinus, ultimate lateral lobules stout, terminating in paired
teeth……………………………………………………..…..(7) M. radians
1. Micrasterias alata Wallich
(Krieger 1939, p. 61, pl. 114, f. 1-4; Prescott et al. 1977, p. 138, pl. 112, f. 3-8)
[Pl. XXIX, f. 505; pl. XXX, f. 506]
Cells medium sized; sinus deep, closed in inner quarter, then widely open; lateral
lobes once divided, the lower member simple, all divisions deep; lobules swollen
at the base, then abruptly and narrowly tapering to tridentate extremities, the upper
margin of the upper member extending vertically, parallel to the polar lobe,
separated from it by a deep and narrow incision; polar lobe slender with parallel
sides, abruptly branching at apex into 2 slender diverging processes; cell wall
smooth.
Length: 104-145 µm, Breadth: 111-133 µm, Isthmus: 16-18µm.
Collection No. DD-412, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filaments growing attached on pebbles & submerged weeds (pH 6
temp. 10ºC). DD-726, 02.05.2010, Mach Pokhri, Kalimpong. In association with
light green filaments on the surface of the wet rock (pH 6.5 temp. 24ºC).
SYSTEMATIC PART
185
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); West Bengal (Mukherjee &
Srivastava 1993).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
2. Micrasterias alata Wallich forma
(Prescott et al. 1977, p. 138, pl. 112, f. 3-8)
[Pl. XXX, f. 507, 508]
Differs from the type in being larger and granules on the surface.
Length: 155-165 µm, Breadth: 137-141 µm, Isthmus: 15-16 µm, Breadth at the
apex: 52-55 µm.
Collection No. DD-412, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with slimy mass growing benthic near the margins of the Lake (pH 6 temp. 10ºC).
3. Micrasterias ceratofera Joshua
(Ling & Tyler 1986, p. 30, pl. 22, f. 12)
[Pl. XXIX, f. 503, 504]
Cells large, elongate, about twice as long as broad; sinus deep, isthmus open,
acute angled; semicells pyramidal-hexagonal, basal lobes broad, once divided,
furnished with single, long, blunt spine, both spines directed oppositely; upper
lobe elongate, lateral margin very slight attenuate; apex retuse having two long,
blunt spines, slightly diverging; cell wall smooth.
Length: 168-171 µm, Breadth: 86-89 µm, Isthmus: 18-20 µm.
Collection No. DD-418, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
4. Micrasterias foliacea Bailey ex Ralfs var. foliacea
(Krieger 1939, p. 77, pl. 120, f. 8, 9, pl. 121, f. 1-5; Prescott et al. 1977, p. 158, pl.
139, f. 3-8)
[Pl. XXIX, f. 499, 500; pl. XXX, f. 513, 514]
Cells moderate, occur singly or united in filaments by the interlocking of the polar
lobes; cells rectangular, slightly longer than broad; sinus sublinear; lateral lobes
SYSTEMATIC PART
186
divided to the second and third order, dissimilar, the lower lobules horizontal, the
upper diverging, its upper part reduced to a conical projection; polar lobe very
distinctive, basal part narrow with erect parallel sides, upper three-quarters of the
lobe greatly expanded, with a very broad, deep subrectangular excavation in the
middle of the apex, angles stout, ending in 2 widely divergent teeth; depressed
portion of the apex bearing two stout spines on each side, unequal in size; semicell
in vertical view narrowly fusiform, the central part obliquely rhomboidal, showing
the unequal apical spines.
Length: 51-94 µm, Breadth: 58-77 µm, Isthmus: 15-22 µm.
Collection No. DD-382, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with light green filaments floating freely on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp.
8ºC). DD-411, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association with aquatic
pebbles growing on the mud (pH 6, temp. 10ºC). DD-710, 01.05.2010, Delo
reservoir, Kalimpong. With the phytoplankton sample collected from the Lake
(pH 7, temp. 21ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Assam (Carter 1926; Brhül &
Biswas 1926); Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu (Bharati & Pai 1972); Vidarbh,
Maharashtra (Kamat 1975); Uttar Pradesh (Prasad & Mehrotra 1977a); Nagpur
(Freitas & Kamat 1979); Andaman (Prasad & Misra 1985); West Bengal
(Mukherjee & Srivastava 1993); Nagpur, Maharashtra (Tarar et al. 1998);
Siddharth Nagar (Prakash et al. 2005); Muriyad, Kerala (Sanilkumar & Thomas
2006); Bihar (Kumar & Chaudhary 2009); Goalpara, Assam (Deca et al. 2011).
5. Micrasterias mahabuleshwarensis Hobson var. mahabuleshwarensis
(Hobson 1863, p. 168, f. 169; West & GS West 1909, p. 121; Krieger 1939, p. 49,
pl. 109, f. 7-10; Prescott et al. 1977, p. 164, pl. 143, f. 1, 2, 4, 5; Dillard 1993, p.
94, pl. 12, f. 14)
[Pl. XXIX, f. 501, 502]
Cells of medium size, slightly longer than broad; sinus sharp angled, widely open;
polar lobe in lower half quadrate, above widely expanding into narrow diverging
processes at the angles, with more nearly erect accessory processes at their base,
arising asymmetrically, one at the front and one at the back of the apex, apex
between processes nearly straight; lateral lobes once divided into narrow tapering
SYSTEMATIC PART
187
processes; all processes with serrate margins, ends tri-denticulate; semicells with a
row of acute intra-marginal granules along the inner part of the major incisions,
with a small granulate central protuberance above the isthmus.
Length: 110-115 µm, Breadth: 96-100 µm, Isthmus: 21-22 µm, Breadth at the
apex: 62-64 µm.
Collection No. DD-31, 16.04.2009, Pelling, Sikkim. In association with deep
green filaments floating freely on the surface of water forming bloom in a small
Lake (pH 5 temp. 21ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Nagpur (Freitas & Kamat
1979); Andamans (Prasad & Misra 1982); Basti, Uttar Pradesh (Misra et al. 2001);
Uttar Pradesh (Misra & Srivastava 2003); Muriyad, Kerala (Sanilkumar &
Thomas 2006); Bihar (Kumar & Chaudhary 2009).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
6. Micrasterias pinnatifida (Kützing) Ralfs var. pinnatifida
(West & GS West 1909, p. 80, pl. 41, f. 7-9, 13; Krieger 1939, p. 16, pl. 99, f. 6-9;
Prescott et al. 1977, p. 173, pl. 89, f. 6-8, pl. 90, f. 1-8; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 106,
pl. 13, f. 1)
[Pl. XXX, f. 515, 516]
Cells small, slightly longer than broad, deeply constricted, sinus closed; lateral
lobes single, undivided, conical, horizontally extended, somewhat constrict just
before the bifid extremity, polar lobes horizontally spreading, apex very slightly
convex; polar extension smaller than the lateral lobes, bifid at the extremities; sub-
polar incision deep and semicircular within; wall smooth; chloroplast with erect
curved lamellae having few pyrenoids.
Length: 50-63 µm, Breadth: 58-61µm, Isthmus: 7-9 µm.
Collection No. DD-382, DD-388, 09.11.2009, Khechiperi Lake, Sikkim. In
association with wet mosses on the bank (pH 6, temp. 10ºC). DD-408, 06.11.2009,
Changu Lake, Sikkim. With phytoplankton samples collected from the Lake (pH
6, temp. 9ºC). DD-804, 11.11.2011, Rishop, West Bengal. In association with
brown scum from a small water body (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
(Agarkar 1969); Kodaikanal, (Iyengar & Vimla Bai 1941; Bharati & Pai 1972);
SYSTEMATIC PART
188
Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat 1975); Allahabad (Pandey & Pandey 1980);
Savandurga, Karnataka (Gurudeva 1983); Kashmir (Compère 1983); Andaman
(Prasad & Misra 1985); Rohilkhand, Uttar Pradesh (Habib 1993); Pilibhit, Uttar
Pradesh (Habib 1997); Basti, Uttar Pradesh (Misra et al. 2001); Shillong,
Meghalaya (Gupta 2002); Uttar Pradesh (Misra & Srivastava 2003); Uttarakhand
(Misra et al. 2008); Bihar (Kumar & Chaudhary 2009); Goalpara, Assam (Deca et
al. 2011); Eastern Himalaya (Yasmin et al. 2011).
7. Micrasterias radians Turner
(Turner 1892, p. 91, pl. 5, f. 6a; Krieger 1939, p. 67, pl. 115, f. 8, pl. 116, f. 1;
Prescott et al. 1977, p. 176, pl. 115, f. 5-7)
[Pl. XXX, f. 509, 510]
Cells large, about 1.3 times longer than broad; lateral lobes evenly twice divided,
lobules slightly swollen at the base, terminating in paired teeth; polar lobe slightly
exerted, the lower margins parallel, the upper part diverging, the apex deeply
concave between the 2 short bi-dentate processes, all incision widely open; cell
wall smooth.
Length: 155-162 µm, Breadth: 118-122 µm, Isthmus: 26-27 µm.
Collection No. DD-383, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake Sikkim. Brownish scum
lodged on the submerged parts of the semi-aquatic plants (pH 6, temp. 8ºC).
Indian distribution: East India (Turner 1892); Kodaikanal, (Bharati & Pai 1972);
Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat 1975); Andaman (Prasad & Misra 1985); Uttar
Pradesh (Misra & Srivastava 2003).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
8. Micrasterias tropica Nordstedt
(Krieger 1939, p. 56, pl. 112, f. 3-6; Prescott et al. 1977, p. 193, pl. 140, f. 3, 4)
[Pl. XXX, f. 511, 512]
Cells medium sized, slight longer than broad; sinus opening widely from a sharp-
angled interior; polar lobe with erect, parallel-sided lower part and a diverging
upper part, the apex flat between the long, spreading processes; lateral lobe
undivided, horizontally extended, strongly tapered; with small stout marginal
spines toward the extremities of the lateral lobes and polar processes, and similar
SYSTEMATIC PART
189
spines within the margins of all but the extremities; spines stouter or paired at the
depressed apex and above the isthmus; semicells in vertical view fusiform with a
blunt-angled median inflation; marginal and inter-marginal spines present.
Length: 116-119 µm, Breadth: 107-115 µm, Isthmus: 20-22 µm.
Collection No. DD-417, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with brownish wooly masses growing in water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: East India (Turner 1892); Bandhavgarh (Agarkar & Agarkar
1979), Shimoga district, Karnataka (Hegde 1986a).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
9. Micrasterias zeylanica Fritsch
(Krieger 1937, p. 37, pl. 101, f. 13; Ling & Tyler 1986, p. 33, pl. 21, f. 8-13)
[Pl. XXX, f. 517, 518]
Cells small, slightly longer than broad; sinus open, deep, triangular, acuminate
with a pointed inner termination; semicells 3-lobed, lobes separated by incisions,
which penetrate deeply and are inclined toward the sinus; ends of terminal lobe
bluntly pointed; lateral lobes with two blunt processes, separated by a narrow and
rather shallow, rounded depression, the processes next to the sinus being
horizontal, the other bent down toward the sinus; polar lobe widely spreading,
slightly drawn out at each extremity into a horizontal or deflected process; apex
flatly convex; cell wall smooth.
Length: 62-65 µm, Breadth: 60-62 µm, Isthmus: 10-12 µm.
Collection No. DD-456, 08.11.2009, Kanchanjangha falls, Sikkim. In association
with light greenish-yellow filaments attached on the surface of the wet rock (pH 6,
temp. 14ºC).
Indian distribution: Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat 1975); Andaman (Prasad &
Misra 1985); Shillong, Meghalaya (Gupta 2002); Uttar Pradesh (Misra &
Srivastava 2003); Siddharth Nagar (Prakash et al. 2005); Bihar (Kumar &
Chaudhary 2009); Eastern Himalaya (Yasmin et al. 2011); Kangra, Himachal
Pradesh (Kumar et al. 2012).
SYSTEMATIC PART
190
XII. Onychonema Wallich
Cells small, compressed, loosely arranged end to end forming unbranched filament;
median constriction deep, sinus linear, narrow. Semicells mostly elliptic in shape,
sometimes reniform with single stout lateral spine and also 2 capitate apical
processes, nearly as long as the semicells, one process extending over the adjoining
semicell in the front and one in the back. Lateral spines rarely lacking. Cell wall
smooth and colourless. Filaments often embedded in a broad mucilaginous sheath.
Key to the taxa investigated:
1. Apical margin very slightly convex, lateral spines very short
………....(1) O. laeve var. micracanthum
1. Apical margin slightly undulate, lateral spines longer and stout
………………..…(2) O. laeve var. latum
1. Onychonema laeve Nordstedt var. micracanthum Nordstedt
(Croasdale et al. 1983, p. 14, pl. 453, f. 7-9)
[Pl. XXX, f. 519, 520]
Semicells oblong-reniform, 1.3 times broader than long, deeply and narrowly
constricted; sinus linear; the lateral angles ending in a very short spine; apical
processes long and outwardly directed; apices flat; cells loosely joined end to end
forming long pseudo-filament.
Length: 20-23 µm. (with spines), 15-17 µm. (without spines);
Breadth: 22-25 µm. (with spines), 20-23 µm. (without spines);
Isthmus: 6-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-388, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with greenish-brown scum on the surface of the wet rock (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat
1975); Uttar Pradesh (Misra & Srivastava 2003).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
2. Onychonema laeve Nordstedt var. latum West et GS West
SYSTEMATIC PART
191
(Croasdale et al. 1983, p. 14, pl. 453, f. 1-6)
[Pl. XXX, f. 521, 522]
Cells compressed, subrectangular, 1.5-2 times broader than long, deeply and
narrowly constricted; the lateral angles ending in a long stout converging spine;
apical processes about as long as the spines; the apex slightly elevated and
truncate, undulate.
Length: 21-23 µm. (with spines), 14-15 µm. (without spines);
Breadth: 33-38 µm. (with spines), 25-29 µm. (without spines);
Isthmus: 5-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-441, 08.11.2009, Pelling, Sikkim. In association with brown
scum on aquatic weeds in a small water body (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Kodaikanal, (Bharati & Pai 1972); Vidarbh, Maharashtra
(Kamat 1975); Kalimpong and Sikkim (Santra & Pal 2006); Kerala (John &
Francis 2010).
XIII. Penium Brébisson ex Ralfs
Cells solitary, cylindrical, straight, elongate or short, median constriction present,
sometimes may be absent. Lateral walls parallel, rarely slight attenuated to truncate or
broadly rounded apex. Girdle bands sometimes evident in some species. Cell wall
smooth but sometimes may be granulate, striated, spinulate or porous and sometimes
may be brown in colour. Chloroplast single, axial, rarely parietal (several spiral
bands) with several longitudinal radiating ridges having one to several pyrenoids in
each semicells. Few species with terminal vacuoles containing granules.
Key to the taxa investigated:
1. Cell wall punctate
2. Punctae very fine, girdle bands absent, margins of the chloroplast serrated
.............(1) P. exiguum var. glaberrimum
2. Punctae relatively prominent, girdle bands present, margins of the chloroplast
entire………………………………............(4) P. margaritaceum var. punctatum
SYSTEMATIC PART
192
1. Cell wall striated or granulate
3. Cells elongate, 4-5 times longer than broad, granulate, apex rounded
4. Granules arranged in more or less longitudinal rows
...….(2) P. margaritaceum var. margaritaceum
4. Granule arranged irregularly.................(3) P. margaritaceum var. irregularius
3. Cells stout, less than 2 times longer than broad, apex flat, angles rounded, cell
wall striated……………………….....................................(5) P. phymatosporum
1. Penium exiguum West var. glaberrimum Gronblad
(Krieger 1937, p. 234, pl. 10, f. 11; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 9, pl. 10, f. 13, 14)
[Pl. XXVI, f. 421, 422]
Cells large, cylindrical, 5-5.5 times longer than broad; cells with slight median
constriction; poles truncated with angles rounded and somewhat swollen;
chloroplast with 10 longitudinal, radiating plates which are with serrated margins;
cells smooth.
Length: 116-118 µm, Breadth: 22-23 µm.
Collection No. DD-137, 18.04.2009, Khechiperi Lake, Sikkim. In association
with mass lodged with the submerged leaves of Cryptomeria plants (pH 5.5, temp.
17ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
2. Penium margaritaceum (Ehrenberg) de Brébisson ex Ralfs var. margaritaceum
(West & GS West 1904, p. 83, pl. 8, f. 32-35; Krieger 1937, p. 230, pl. 10, f. 2-4;
Prescott et al. 1975, p. 9-10, pl. 9, f. 11-13; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 19, pl. 1, f. 9)
[Pl. XXVI, f. 423, 424]
Cells large, long, 3 times longer than broad, cylindrical with rounded apices; wall
brown in colour, rough with granules more or less regularly arranged in vertical
rows; chloroplast two in each semicell, having 8 radiating longitudinal plates.
Length: 79-83 µm, Breadth: 15-19 µm, Apex: 5-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-417, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with greenish-brown scum on the surface of the wet rock (pH 6, temp. 10ºC). DD-
SYSTEMATIC PART
193
717, 01.05.2010, Kalimpong. With phytoplankton sample collected from a small
water body (pH 6.5, temp. 25ºC)
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Kashmir (Suxena &
Venkateswarlu 1968b); Madhya Pradesh (Agarker & Agarkar 1977); Allahabad
(Pandey & Pandey 1980); Karnataka and Goa (Bharti & Hegde 1982b);
Savandurga, Karnataka (Gurudeva et al. 1983); Kashmir (Compère 1983);
Mamencho Lake, Sikkim (Das & Keshri 2012).
3. Penium margaritaceum (Ehrenberg) Brébisson ex Ralfs var. irregularius West et
GS West
(Krieger 1937, p. 232, pl. 10, f. 5; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 10, pl. 10, f. 1-3)
[Pl. XXVI, f. 425]
Cells medium sized, cells cylindrical with broadly rounded apices, 4-4.5 times
longer than broad; cells slightly constricted at the midregion; cell wall having
irregularly disposed dense granules; chloroplast 2 in each semicell with 4
radiating, longitudinal plates in front view.
Length: 64-71 µm, Breadth: 15-17 µm.
No. DD-382, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake. Sikkim. In association with green
filamentous mass attached to the surface of the submerged aquatic plants (pH 6,
temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
4. Penium margaritaceum (Ehrenberg) de Brébisson ex Ralfs var. punctatum Ralfs
(Prescott et al. 1975, p. 11, pl. 10, f. 5)
[Pl. XXVI, f. 426, 427]
Cells large, cylindrical, slightly tapering to broadly rounded apices, 7-8 times
longer than broad; cells slightly constricted at the midregion; girdle band is
present in only one semicell here; cell wall punctate, punctae irregularly disposed;
chloroplast single with 6 longitudinal, radiating plates.
Length: 170-173 µm, Breadth: 22-24 µm.
Collection No. DD-201, 19.04.2009, Pharmong falls, Sikkim. In association with
green scum growing in a small rock pool (pH 4.5, temp. 19ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
SYSTEMATIC PART
194
5. Penium phymatosporum Nordstedt
(West & GS West 1904, p. 91, pl. 6, f. 9-11; Krieger 1937, p. 237, pl. 11, f. 14-17;
Prescott et al. 1975, p. 11, pl. 10, f. 20-23; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 19, pl. 1, f. 19)
[Pl. XXVI, f. 428]
Cells short, 1.7-2 times longer than broad, cylindrical with a very slight median
constriction; lateral walls slightly attenuated toward the apices; apex truncated
with rounded angles; chloroplast parietal, single in each semicell; cell wall
striated.
Length: 34-36 µm, Breadth: 19-20 µm.
Collection No. DD-396, 06.11.2009, Babamandir, Sikkim. In association with
mosses under a small stream (pH 6, temp. 8ºC). DD-625, 04.05.2010,
Gurudongmar Lake, Sikkim. In association with brown mass from a rock pool
near the Lake (pH 6, temp. 7ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
XIV. Pleurotaenium Nageli
Cells solitary, straight, elongate, cylindrical. Median constriction shallow, a notch.
Semicells having basal swelling, usually single, sometimes several basal swellings
can be seen. Lateral walls generally straight, slightly attenuated to the poles or
undulate or with definite nodes. Apex truncate or truncate-rounded, usually smooth,
sometimes with ring of round or conical warts or short spines. Cell wall smooth or
punctate rarely hirsute, sometimes cell wall ornamented with whorls of rectangular
areas. Chloroplast with 2-10 parietal bands parallel or irregularly anastomoising, each
with several pyrenoids.
Key to the taxa investigated:
1. Apex smooth, not furnished with spines
2. Cell wall undulate throughout
3. Cell wall with whorls of rectangular areas...........................(13) Pl. trochiscum
SYSTEMATIC PART
195
3. Cell wall with minute pores.....................................................(7) Pl. repandum
2. Cell wall entire, sometimes 1-3 basal undulations present
4. Cell stout, lateral margins strongly convex......(14) Pl. truncatum var. crassum
4. Cells elongate, lateral wall not convex, nearly parallel
5. Cells less than 16 times longer than broad
6. Cell wall smooth...................................(11) Pl. trabecula var. elongatum
6. Cell wall papillate..............................(12) Pl. trabecula var. hutchinsonii
5. Cells more than 16 times longer than broad
7. Cells with 2 prominent basal swellings....(9) Pl. trabecula var. trabecula
7. Cells without any basal swelling..............(10) Pl. trabecula var. crassum
1. Apex with whorls of either circular tubercles or with spines
8. Apex with spines
9. Spines minute, many, arranged in 3 vertical series..................(5) Pl. eugeneum
9. Spines relatively large, 6 in number, arranged in a single series
………………………....(6) Pl. nodosum
8. Apex with tubercles
10. Apical tubercles many, above 10 in face view
……(8) Pl. subcoronulatum f. elongatum
10. Apical tubercles few, below 10 in face view
11. Apical tubercles 3 in face view
12. Cells very much elongate, more than 20 times longer than broad,
lateral walls not abruptly tapered near the apex
……...(4) Pl. ehrenbergii var. elongatum
12. Cell not much elongate, less than 20 times longer than broad, lateral
SYSTEMATIC PART
196
walls abruptly tapering near the apex
……..(3) Pl. ehrenbergii var. crenulatum
11. Apical tubercles more than 3 in face view
13. Semicells with 3 well defined basal inflations, pores minute
….....(1) Pl. ehrenbergii var. ehrenbergii
13. Semicells with a single faint basal swelling, pore size relatively big
….............(2) Pl. ehrenbergii var. rectum
1. Pleurotaenium ehrenbergii (Brébisson) de Bary var. ehrenbergii
(West & GS West 1904, p. 205, pl.29, f. 9-11, pl. 30, f. 1; Krieger 1937, p. 410,
pl. 42, f. 4-8; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 114, pl. 45, f. 1-5; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 57,
pl. 7, f. 10, pl. 8, f. 1-2)
[Pl. XXIV, f. 397, 398]
Cells large, 13-15 times longer than broad, slightly constricted; semicells with a
somewhat conspicuous basal inflation and usually with one or two smaller
swelling beyond; margins of the semicells slightly tapered to a rounded-truncate
apex where there are 6 rounded tubercles visible in face view; wall punctate;
chloroplasts in longitudinal, 4 parietal bands in face view, with many pyrenoids.
Length: 621-626 µm, Breadth: 23-30 µm, Apex: 23-25 µm.
Collection No. DD-257, 11.05.2009, Gangtok, Sikkim. In association with wet
mosses growing on the bark of Cryptomeria tree. DD-382, DD-388, 06.11.2009,
Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with green filamentous mass attached to
the surface of the submerged aquatic plants (pH 6, temp. 10ºC). DD-631,
04.05.2010, Gurudongmar Lake, Sikkim. With phytoplankton sample collected
from the Lake (pH 6, temp. 9ºC). DD-763, 10.11.11, Lava, West Bengal. In
association with brownish powdery mass from a ditch (pH 6, temp. 18ºC).
Indian distribution: Simla (Kamat 1968b); Kashmir (Suxena & Venkateswarlu
1968b); Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar 1971); Nagpur (Freitas & Kamat
1979); Karnataka and Goa (Bharti & Hegde 1982a); Kodaikanal, (Bharati & Pai
1972); Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat 1975); Uttar Pradesh (Prasad & Mehrotra
1977a); Andamans (Prasad & Misra 1982); Savandurga, Karnataka (Gurudeva et
al. 1983); Karnataka (Bongle 1987); Udalkachar, Madhya Pradesh (Habib 1991);
SYSTEMATIC PART
197
West Bengal (Mukherjee & Srivastava 1993); Nagpur, Maharashtra (Tarar et al.
1998); Basti, Uttar Pradesh (Misra et al. 2001); Siddharth Nagar (Prakash et al.
2005); Kalimpong and Sikkim (Santra & Pal 2006); Muriyad, Kerala (Sanilkumar
& Thomas 2006); Southern Himachal Pradesh (Dwivedi et al. 2009); Bihar
(Kumar & Chaudhary 2009); Kodaikanal, Tamilnadu (Singh & Balasingh 2011);
Eastern Himalaya (Yasmin et al. 2011).
This is a fairly common species of Pleurotaenium in India.
2. Pleurotaenium ehrenbergii (Brébisson) de Bary var. ehrenbergii f. rectum
Irénée-Marie
(Prescott et al. 1975, p. 115, pl. 45, f. 6, 7)
[Pl. XXIV, f. 396]
Cells large, 15-17 times longer than broad, slightly constricted with the isthmus
inconspicuous, without a median suture; basal inflation of the semicell slightly
tapered to a truncate apex, where there are 9 rounded tubercles visible; chloroplast
in longitudinal parietal bands with several pyrenoids but not aligned; cell wall
porous.
Length: 603-610 µm, Breadth: 37-40 µm, Apex: 29-33 µm.
Collection No. DD-594, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with brown
scum on the surface of the rock under flowing water (pH 6.5, temp. 16ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
3. Pleurotaenium ehrenbergii (Brébisson) de Bary var. crenulatum (Ehrenberg)
Krieger
(Krieger 1937, p. 413, pl. 43, f. 6; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 116, pl. 45, f. 12, 13)
[Pl. XXIV, f. 400, 401]
Cells large, 16-18 times longer than broad, slightly constricted; semicells with a
somewhat conspicuous basal inflation; margin of the semicell slightly tapered to a
truncately-rounded apex, bearing 5 rounded tubercles visible in the face view; cell
wall porous; chloroplast composed of several longitudinal, parietal bands with
several pyrenoids.
Length: 527-534 µm, Breadth: 30-33 µm, Apex: 16-19 µm.
SYSTEMATIC PART
198
Collection No. DD-584, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with
greenish scum with wet mosses growing on soil (pH 6.5, temp. 15ºC).
Indian distribution: Amritsar, Punjab (Singh 1966).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
4. Pleurotaenium ehrenbergii (Brébisson) de Bary var. elongatum West
(West & GS West 1904, p. 207, pl. 30, f. 3; Krieger 1937, p. 414, pl. 43, f. 1;
Prescott et al. 1975, p. 117, pl. 46, f. 1-3)
[Pl. XXV, f. 411, 412]
Cells medium sized, very long, 21-26 times longer than broad; semicells straight,
evenly tapered, with a small basal swelling and 3 smaller swellings beyond it;
apex rounded-truncate with 3 rounded tubercles are visible; chloroplast
longitudinal parietal bands with several pyrenoids, cell wall punctate.
Length: 407-412 µm, Breadth: 16-19 µm, Apex: 13-14 µm.
Collection No. DD-18, 16.04.2009, Pelling, Sikkim. In association with light
brown filamentous mass with aquatic weeds from a water body (pH 5, temp.
19ºC).
Indian distribution: Karnataka and Goa (Bharti & Hegde 1982a).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
5. Pleurotaenium eugeneum (Turner) West et GS West
(West & GS West 1904, p. 202; Krieger 1937, p. 417, pl. 44, f. 4, 5; Prescott et al.
1975, p. 118, p. 47, f. 12, 14)
[Pl. XXV, f. 408]
Cells medium sized, 13-15 times longer than broad; semicells with evident basal
inflation and with diminishing undulations beyond it; lateral margins parallel and
very little tapered towards the apex, apex rounded-truncate showing two rows of
small tubercles 10 tubercles each; chloroplast with several scattered pyrenoids;
cell wall smooth.
Length: 554-607 µm, Breadth: 37-45 µm, Apex: 22-25 µm.
Collection No. DD-176, 19.04.2009, Yoksum, Sikkim. In association with brown
filaments growing on a tank (pH 5, temp. 19ºC).
SYSTEMATIC PART
199
Indian distribution: Uttar Pradesh (Prasad & Mehrotra 1977); Nagpur (Freitas &
Kamat 1979); Karnataka and Goa (Bharti & Hegde 1982a); Nagpur, Maharashtra
(Tarar et al. 1998)
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
6. Pleurotaenium nodosum (Bailey) Lundell var. nodosum
(West & GS West 1904, p. 214, pl. 31, f. 3-6; Krieger 1937, p. 436, pl. 47, f. 1;
Prescott et al. 1975, p. 125, p. 44, f. 1-3; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 59, pl. 8, f. 3)
[Pl. XXV, f. 416, 417]
Cells large crenate in face view, 5-6 times longer than broad; semicells with
nodulose margins caused by 4 evenly spaced rings of prominent nodules, 5-9 in
each ring; semicells tapering very slightly to the apex which is slightly dilated,
rounder-truncate, and furnished with a crown of 6 conical teeth which do not
project beyond the extreme apex; wall smooth; chloroplast consisting of parietal
bands.
Length: 276-278 µm, Breadth: 46-50 µm, Apex: 28-29 µm.
Collection No. DD-391, 06.11.2009, Bitang cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with brownish scum attached to the submerged part of the semi-aquatic plants (pH
6 temp 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
7. Pleurotaenium repandum (Wolle) Krieger var. repandum f. repandum
(Krieger 1937, p. 405, pl. 41, f. 9; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 129, pl. 41, f. 10)
[Pl. XXIV, f. 405, 406]
Cells medium sized, 14-17 times longer than broad; semicells very slightly
tapered from base to apex, basal inflation very slight, the entire margins undulate;
apex truncate, wall finely punctate.
Length: 247-252 µm, Breadth: 15-18 µm, Apex: 11-12 µm.
Collection No. DD-584, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with
greenish scum with wet mosses growing on soil (pH 6.5, temp. 15ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
SYSTEMATIC PART
200
8. Pleurotaenium subcoronulatum (Turner) West & West var. subcoronulatum f.
elongatum Croasdale et Scott
(Prescott et al. 1975, p. 132, pl. 49, f. 5)
[Pl. XXIV, f. 399]
Cells large, 24-32 times longer than broad; semicells with slight basal swelling;
slightly undulate to the apex forming little bulbous-swollen tip, on which 12
rounded tubercles are visible in face view; both margins nearly parallel to each
other; entire wall covered with minute erect spines except the apex.
Length: 737-743 µm, Breadth: 38-42 µm, Apex: 44-45 µm.
Collection No. DD-391, 06.11.2009, Bitang cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with brownish scum attached to the submerged part of the semi-aquatic plants (pH
6 temp 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
9. Pleurotaenium trabecula (Ehrenberg) Nageli var. trabecula
(West & GS West 1904, p. 209, pl. 30, f. 11-13; Krieger 1937, p. 395, pl. 40, f. 1-
4; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 133, pl. 40, f. 1-5; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 59, pl. 7, f. 4)
[Pl. XXIV, f. 404; pl. XXV, f. 409, 410]
Cells large, 10-17 times longer than broad; basal inflation slight but definite, with
1-2 swelling beyond it; lateral margins straight and parallel or little swollen in the
midregion and very slightly tapered toward the apex which is truncate with
rounded angles; cell wall finely punctate, punctae irregular.
Length: 425-528 µm, Breadth: 25-50 µm, Apex: 17-31 µm.
Collection No. DD-412, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with dark greenish filament floating freely on the surface of water (pH 6, temp.
10ºC). DD-501, Changey falls, Sikkim. In association with filamentous mass
growing on the rock under the water (pH 6, temp. 14ºC). DD-717, 01.05.2010,
Kalimpong. With phytoplankton sample collected from a small waterbody (pH
6.5, temp. 25ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Kodaikanal, Tamilnadu
(Iyengar & Vimla Bai 1941; Singh & Balasingh 2011); Andhra Pradesh (Suxena
& Venkateswarlu 1968a); Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar 1969); Vidarbh,
Maharashtra (Kamat 1975); Uttar Pradesh (Prasad & Mehrotra 1977); Nagpur
SYSTEMATIC PART
201
(Freitas & Kamat 1979); Allahabad (Pandey & Pandey 1980); Karnataka and Goa
(Bharti & Hegde 1982a); Savandurga, Karnataka (Gurudeva et al. 1983);
Udalkachar, Madhya Pradesh (Habib 1991); Uttarakhand (Misra et al. 2007);
Uttar Pradesh (Shukla et al. 2008); Southern Himachal Pradesh (Dwivedi et al.
2009); Eastern Himalaya (Yasmin et al. 2011).
10. Pleurotaenium trabecula (Ehrenberg) Nageli var. crassum Wittrock
(Krieger 1937, p. 399, pl. 40, f. 6; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 134, pl. 40, f. 13, 14;
Lenzenweger 1996, p. 60, pl. 7, f. 5)
[Pl. XXV, f. 418]
Cells medium sized, stout, 4-6 times longer than broad; lateral walls slightly
convex forming truncate apex with rounded angles; cell wall slightly tapered
toward the apex; cell wall smooth.
Length: 224-231 µm, Breadth: 40-55 µm, Apex: 20-26 µm.
Collection No. DD-379, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with deep green filamentous mass floating freely on the surface of water forming
bloom (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
11. Pleurotaenium trabecula (Ehrenberg) Nageli var. elongatum Cedergren
(Krieger 1937, p. 399, pl. 40, f. 5; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 134, p. 40, f. 10-11)
[Pl. XXV, f. 407]
Cells medium sized, 18-20 times longer than broad; basal inflation slight but
definite; lateral margin parallel but very slight broad at the apex forming truncate
apex with rounded angles; chloroplast parietal with scattered pyrenoids; cell wall
finely punctate.
Length: 734-745 µm, Breadth: 38-39 µm. Apex: 41-44 µm.
Collection No. DD-223, Changu Lake, Sikkim. With water sample collected from
the Lake (pH 6, temp. 6ºC). DD-792, 11.11.2011, Rishop, West Bengal. In
association with reddish yellow powdery mass with the mosses growing in a drain
(pH 6, temp. 20ºC). DD-756, 10.11.2011, Lava, West Bengal. In association with
green filaments floats freely on the surface of a small water body (pH 6, temp
17ºC).
SYSTEMATIC PART
202
Indian distribution: Nagpur (Freitas & Kamat 1979); Nagpur, Maharashtra
(Tarar et al. 1998).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
12. Pleurotaenium trabecula (Ehrenberg) Nageli var . hutchinsonii (Turner)
Croasdale
(Prescott et al. 1975, p. 135, p. 40, f. 6)
[Pl. XXV, f. 413]
Cells long, slender, 16-18 times longer than broad; basal inflations definite with 3
swellings; lateral walls parallel forming truncate apex with rounded angles; cell
wall entirely covered with small dense papillae; chloroplast with 3 longitudinal
bands.
Length: 457-465 µm, Breadth: 26-28 µm. Apex: 13-15 µm.
Present specimen tallies with the type but differs in,
1. Much larger
2. 3 basal swellings.
Collection No. DD-417, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with greenish-brown scum on the surface of the wet rock (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
13. Pleurotaenium trochiscum West et GS West
(Krieger 1937, p. 437, pl. 51, f. 2; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 136, pl. 50, f. 9-12)
[Pl. XXV, f. 414, 415]
Cells medium sized, 8-10 times longer than broad; semicells cylindrical with
straight margins, very slightly tapered to the smooth, truncate- rounded apex; cell
wall with 15 circles of rectangular thinner areas each circles having 4-5 areas,
areas rectangular with rounded angles; apex having few granules; chloroplast
having 6 longitudinal ridges with scattered pyrenoids; cell wall smooth.
Length: 244-248 µm, Breadth: 25-28 µm, Apex: 15-16 µm.
Collection No. DD-381, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with brownish scum attached to the surface of the submerged parts of the semi-
aquatic plants (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
SYSTEMATIC PART
203
14. Pleurotaenium truncatum (Brébisson) Nageli var. crassum Boldt f. crassum
(West & GS West 1904, p. 204; Krieger 1937, p. 432, pl. 49, f. 7; Prescott et al.
1975, p. 137, pl. 46, f. 9-11; Lenzenweger 1996, p. 60, pl. 8, f. 5)
[Pl. XXIV, f. 402, 403]
Cells large, stout, 2-3 times longer than broad; semicells swollen beyond the basal
inflation, margins strongly convex and tapering to the apex; apex truncate with
rounded angles, apical tubercles absent; wall smooth, whitish-yellow in colour.
Length: 225-228 µm, Breadth: 75-82 µm, Isthmus: 44-47 µm, Apex: 25-26 µm.
Collection No. DD-585, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. With phytoplankton
collected from a small waterfalls (pH 6.5, temp. 15ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
XV. Spondylosium Brébisson ex Kutzing
Cells small to medium sized, compressed, flattened, often deeply constricted with a
narrow or open sinus; semicells in vertical view elliptic, triangular or lobed, bi-radiate
or tri-radiate in end view; cells united by end to end into filaments by remains of
primary wall between closely appresses secondary wall at apices which is flat or
slightly retuse; filaments sometimes sheathed with thick gelatinous stalk. Cell wall
generally smooth, sometimes with pores scattered or arranged in series, rarely with
papillose on the lateral walls. Chloroplast axial, single, with a central or several
pyrenoids in each semicells.
Key to the taxa investigated:
1. Apex broad and flat, in vertical view cell bi-radiate…………………(2) Sp. planum
1. Apex elevated, evenly convex, in vertical view cells tri-radiate
…………..(1) Sp. nitens var. triangulare
1. Spondylosium nitens (Wallich) Archer var. triangulare Turner
(Croasdale et al. 1983, p. 21, pl. 458, f. 4, 5)
[Pl. XXVI, f. 435, 436]
SYSTEMATIC PART
204
Cells small, slightly broader than long, loosely arranged end to end forming
pseudo-filament; semicells 3-lobed, the sinus open and broadly rounded within;
some portion of the apex elevated and flattened; semicells in face view dumbbell-
shaped.
Length: 16-19 µm, Breadth: 19-22 µm, Isthmus: 14-16 µm.
Collection No. DD-585, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. With phytoplankton
sample collected from a small waterfall (pH 6.5, temp. 15ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Kashmir (Compère 1983).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
2. Spondylosium planum (Wolle) West et GS West var. planum
(West et al. 1923, p. 222, pl. 155, f. 23-25; Croasdale et al. 1983, p. 21, pl. 456, f.
6, 6a, 7; Lenzenweger 1997, p. 144, pl. 43, f. 16)
[Pl. XXVI, f. 437]
Cells of medium size, slightly broader than long, sub-cylindrical with rounded
angles, deeply constricted, sinus obtuse and open; apex flat with angles rounded;
cell wall smooth; chloroplast parietal with few pyrenoids.
Length: 13-19 µm, Breadth: 16-20 µm, Isthmus: 6-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-396, 06.11.2009, Babamandir, Sikkim. In association with
mosses under a rock pool (pH 6, temp. 8ºC). DD-361, 05.11.2009, Banjakhri falls,
Sikkim. In association with black scum on soil and rocks under running water (pH
6, temp. 15ºC).
Indian distribution: Ranchi, Bihar (Sinha & Mishra 1967); Kodaikanal, (Bharati
& Pai 1972); Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat 1975); Savandurga, Karnataka
(Gurudeva 1983); Rohilkhand, Uttar Pradesh (Habib 1993); Pilibhit, Uttar Pradesh
(Habib 1997); Goalpara, Assam (Deca et al. 2011).
XVI. Sturastrum Meyen ex Ralfs
Cells solitary, small to large, with usually deep sometimes shallow median
constriction, sinus wide open, rarely closed. In end view cell 2-12 radiate, processes
may be long or short usually with 2 or several short terminal spinules and several
verticals series of granules, denticles, spines or verrucae. Semicells semicircular,
SYSTEMATIC PART
205
elliptic, oblong elliptical, pyramidal or oval, apex convex, smooth or crenate or with
ring of granules, sometimes angles of the semicells rounded, truncate or with short
processes. Cell wall smooth or variously ornamented with granules, spines or
verrucae. Chloroplast axial, stellate single in each semicell with one to several
pyrenoids.
Key to the taxa investigated:
1. Angles of the semicells not produced to form arms or elongated processes
2. Cell wall smooth, without granules, verrucae, pores or punctae..............
..........(7)St. habeebense
2. Cells ornamented with granules, verrucae, pores or punctae
3. Cell wall punctate or porous
4. Semicells transversely elliptic
5. Sinus acute at the apex, opening outwardly, cell wall porous, pores large
…………..………..…..(1) St. bieneanum
5. Sinus broadly ‘U’ shaped, cell wall densely, punctae minute
………...(2) St. bineanum var. ellipticum
4. Semicells shaped otherwise
6. Semicells semicircular
7. Sinus narrow, open outwardly…….(14) St. orbiculare var. orbiculare
7. Sinus closed entirely………………..….(15) St. orbiculare var. minor
6. Semicells sub-reniform……………...………...(13) St. muticum f. minus
3. Cell wall with granules or verrucae
8. Semicells elliptical, dorsal margins somewhat more convex than the
vertical, apex broadly rounded.…..(16) St. punctulatum var. subproductum
SYSTEMATIC PART
206
8. Semicells elongate elliptical, ventral margin convex, apex nearly flat
………………………(8) St. lapponicum
1. Angles of the semicells either apically or laterally produced to form arms or
processes or spines
9. Angles with spines
10. Spines minute, very small
11. Semicells obversely triangular, angles with a single small spine
……..………(5) St. dejectum var. patens
11. Semicells transversely rectangular, angles with two spines
12. Sinus broad, basal margins slightly concave…………..(4) St botanense
12. Sinus acute at the apex, basal margins slightly convex......(6) St. duplex
10. Spines larger and longer
13. Spines single………...………………………..………...(11) St. mamillatum
13. Spines bifid……………………………...……..…………..…(3) St. bifidum
9. Angles with arms, blunt or having rings of granules or with short spines
14. Processes with concentric rings of granules
15. Processes directed upward……………..…………….(20) St. tetracerum
15. Processes laterally directed
16. Semicells with apical rings of granules like a crown
17. Cell 6-radiate, processes ends with several small granules or
spines……………………………..……….(19) St. talisheekense
17. Cell 4-radiate, processes with blunt ends
.….(18) St. striolatum var. striolatum f. brasiliense
16. Apex of the semicells smooth………..……..(12) St. margaritaceum
SYSTEMATIC PART
207
14. Processes without concentric rings of granules, either smooth or
ornamented otherwise
18. Semicells broadly cyathiform, apex broadly convex, processes
downwardly……………………………………….(17) St. sonthalium
18. Semicells broadly bowl-shaped, apex flat, processes laterally directed
19. Apex with low verrucae……..….………...…(9) St. longibrachiatum
19. Apex with series of small granules extended end to end to the
processes…………………….(10) St. longibrachiatum var. inflatum
1. Staurastrum bieneanum Rabenhorst var. bieneanum
(West & GS West 1912, p. 135, pl. 120, f. 4-6; Prescott et al. 1982, p. 141, pl.
333, f. 7-9; Lenzenweger 1997, p. 74, pl. 24, f. 3-5)
[Pl. VII, f. 222; pl, VIII, f. 255, 256]
Cells medium sized, slightly broader than long; median constriction deep, the
sinus acute at the apex, opening outwardly; semicells transversely elliptic, the
base symmetrically convex to the apical angles which are sharply rounded; the
apical margin convex; cell wall punctate.
Length: 26-29 µm, Breadth: 29-30 µm, Isthmus: 5-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-583, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with
greenish-brown scum with mosses in a small rock pool (pH 6.5, temp. 14ºC). DD-
717, 01.05.2010, Kalimpong. With phytoplankton sample collected from a small
water body (pH 6.5, temp. 25ºC).
Indian distribution: Andhra Pradesh (Suxena & Venkateswarlu 1966a); Uttar
Pradesh (Prasad & Mehrotra 1977b); Rohilkhand, Uttar Pradesh (Habib 1993);
Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh (Habib 2009).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
2. Staurastrum bieneanum Rabenhorst var. ellipticum Wille
(West & GS West 1912, p. 137, pl. 120, f. 7; Prescott et al. 1982, p. 142, pl. 333,
f. 5, 6)
[Pl. VIII, f. 259, 260]
SYSTEMATIC PART
208
Cells medium sized, slightly longer than broad; median constriction deep, sinus
open, U-shaped, extremity rounded; semicells transversely elliptical with apical
margin convex, angles rounded; in vertical view cells triangular, margins slightly
retuse, angles broadly rounded; cell wall minutely punctate.
Length: 36-38 µm, Breadth: 33-36 µm, Isthmus: 16-17 µm.
Collection No. DD-414, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filamentous mass attached to the surface of the submerged aquatic
plants (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Uttar Pradesh (Misra & Srivastava 2003).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
3. Staurastrum bifidum (Ehrenberg) Brébisson
(West et al. 1923, p. 32, pl. 134, f. 4; Prescott et al. 1982, p. 142, pl. 363, f. 13;
Lenzenweger 1997, p. 75, pl. 29, f. 10)
[Pl. VIII, f. 244, 245]
Cells medium sized, 1.5-2 times broader than long; median constriction slight, the
sinus obtuse at the apex, widely open; semicells semi-elliptical, the basal margins
symmetrically convex to acutely rounded apical angles which bear a pair of long
sharp, superimposed spines, the apical margin broadly convex; cell wall smooth;
in vertical view cells triangular, the margins concave, the poles bifurcate and
furnished with 2 stout spines in a slightly different plane.
Length: 30-32 µm, Breadth: 52-57 µm. (with spine), Breadth: 33-39 µm. (without
spine), Isthmus: 13-15 µm.
Collection No. DD-379, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with deep green filamentous mass floating freely on the surface of water bloom
(pH 6, temp. 10ºC). DD-805, 11.11.2011, Rishop, West Bengal. In association
with reddish-green with mosses on the bark.
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Kodaikanal, (Bharati & Pai
1972); Savandurga, Karnataka (Gurudeva et al. 1983); Quilon, Kerala (Sindhu &
Panikkar 1995b).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
4. Staurastrum botanense Playfair var. botanense
SYSTEMATIC PART
209
(Prescott et al. 1982, p. 144, pl. 363, f. 6-8)
[Pl. VII, f. 226-228]
Cells small, 1-1.5 times longer than broad; median constriction deep, the sinus
acutely rounded at the apex, widely open; semicells obversely triangular, with the
apical lobes produced and bearing two superimposed spines, the lower bifid, the
basal margin convex and diverging, the apical margin truncate and straight; in
vertical view cells triangular, the margins slightly concave; the poles rounded and
bearing 2 superimposed spines.
Length: 21-22 µm (with spine), Length: 16-18 µm (without spine), Breadth: 17-18
µm (with spine), Breadth: 14-15 µm (without spine), Isthmus: 7-8 µm.
Collection No. DD-583, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with
greenish-brown scum with mosses on a small rock pool (pH 6.5, temp. 14ºC).
DD-792, 11.11.2011, Rishop, West Bengal. In association with reddish yellow
powdery mass with the mosses growing in a drain (pH 6, temp. 20ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
5. Staurastrum dejectum (Brébisson) Ralfs var. patens Nordstedt
(West et al. 1923, p. 9, pl. 130, f. 1, 2; Prescott et al. 1982, p. 181, pl. 350, f. 8, 9,
11, 12; pl. 255, f. 11)
[Pl. VII, f. 236-238]
Cells medium sized, about as long as broad; median constriction deep, sinus acute
angled, opened; semicells obversely triangular, bowl shaped; the lateral margins
convex; the apical angles which are narrowly rounded and furnished with a very
short, diverging spine; apical margin straight; cell wall smooth; in vertical view
cells triangular, margin slightly convex, the angles tumid, narrowly rounded and
bearing a stout spine.
Length: 21-22 µm, Breadth: 23-25 µm, Isthmus: 6-8 µm.
Collection No. DD-389, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with brownish scum attached to the submerged part of the semi-aquatic plants (pH
6, temp. 10ºC). DD-716, 01.05.2010, Kalimpong. In association with blue green
filaments attached on the submerged aquatic plant under a small water body (pH
6.5, temp. 25ºC).
Indian distribution: Karnataka (Hegde 1987).
SYSTEMATIC PART
210
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
6. Staurastrum duplex Wolle
(Prescott et al. 1982, p. 192, pl. 381, f. 8)
[Pl. VIII, f. 241-243]
Cells small, 1.3-1.5 times longer than broad; median constriction moderately deep,
the isthmus rather broad, the sinus acute at the apex, open; semicells transversely
rectangular, the vertical margin convex and then concave into lower, basal
processes which are bi-spinate, the lateral margins vertical and parallel to the
upper angles which are similarly extended into short, truncate, bi-spinate
processes, the apical margin broadly convex; cell wall smooth; in vertical view
cells triangular, the margins broadly concave, the angles extended into bifurcate
processes which are bi-spinate.
Length: 27-29 µm, Breadth: 19-21 µm, Isthmus: 3-4 µm, Thickness: 16-18 µm.
Collection No. DD-380, 06.11.2009 Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
green scum in a swamp (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
7. Staurastrum habeebense Irénée-Marie
(Prescott et al. 1982, p. 218, pl. 328, f. 8)
[Pl. VII, f. 239, 240]
Cells medium sized, 1.5-1.6 times longer than broad; semicells with a shallow
median constriction, the sinus broadly open, the isthmus broad; semicells
pentagonal, the lower margins diverging to broadly rounded lateral angles, then
converging and somewhat concave to the rounded apical angles; the apical margin
truncate-retuse; cell wall finely punctate; chloroplast axial, with single pyrenoid in
each semicell.
Length: 44-45 µm, Breadth: 28-29 µm, Isthmus: 13-15 µm.
Collection No. DD-414, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filamentous mass attached to the surface of the submerged aquatic
plants (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Karnataka (Hegde 1987).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
SYSTEMATIC PART
211
8. Staurastrum lapponicum (Schmidle) Gronblad
(Prescott et al. 1982, p. 231, pl. 337, f. 1, 3; Lenzenweger 1997, p. 100, pl. 25, f.
7)
[Pl. VIII, f. 249, 250]
Cells small, slightly broader than long, median constriction deep, sinus acute at
the apex, then diverging; semicells transversely elongate-elliptic; apex broadly
convex; lateral angles acutely rounded; in vertical view cells triangular, margins
concave, angles rounded; cell wall granular entire margin.
Length: 23-24 µm, Breadth: 26-27 µm, Isthmus: 10-11 µm.
Our specimen is close to the type species but is smaller in all respects.
Collection No. DD-17, 16.04.2009, Pelling, Sikkim. In association with slimy
filaments on the margin of a small Lake (pH 5, temp. 19ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
9. Staurastrum longibrachiatum (Borge) Gutwinski
(Prescott et al. 1982, p. 240, pl. 415, f. 6)
[Pl. VII, f. 229, 230]
Cells medium sized with processes, about twice as broad as long with processes;
median constriction slight, the sinus a broad notch, obtusely rounded at the apex;
semicells broadly bowl-shaped, basal angles at the opening of the sinus furnished
with a bi-spinate protrusion, the margins diverging into the apical processes which
have 2 bi-spinate protrusions at the base, these becoming a series of teeth on the
ventral margin of the process, thus giving the margins of the semicell a series of
incisions and verrucae, the apical angles extended into long, slender processes,
horizontally directed, bispinate at the tip; the apical margins truncate, straight and
slightly depressed between the processes, furnished with a marginal series of
verrucae.
Length: 32-33 µm, Breadth: 59-62 µm, Isthmus: 9-11 µm.
Collection No. DD-583, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with
greenish-brown scum with mosses in a small rock pool (pH 6.5, temp. 14ºC).
Indian distribution: Karnataka (Hegde 1987).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
SYSTEMATIC PART
212
10. Staurastrum longibrachiatum (Borge) Gutwinski var. inflatum Scott et Prescott
(Prescott et al. 1982, p. 240, pl. 415, f. 10)
[Pl. VIII, f. 265, 266]
Cells medium sized with long processes, 1.5-2 times broader than long; median
constriction shallow, sinus broad; semicells broadly bowl shaped; apical angles
extended into long processes, horizontally directed, processes tipped with 3 small
spines and furnished with double series of granules extended to the apex, margins
of the processes with faint undulations; another series of granules at the lateral
margins extending to the sinus on either side; apical margins truncate, slightly
convex at the middle, furnished with a marginal series of granules like a crown;
cell wall punctate.
Length: 32-33 µm, Breadth: 53-56 µm (with processes), 21-23 µm (without
processes), Isthmus: 5-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-24, 16.04.2009, Pelling, Sikkim. In association with dark
green to brownish blue mat in a small drain (pH 5.5, temp. 21ºC).
Indian distribution: Karnataka (Hegde 1987).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
11. Staurastrum mamillatum Nordstedt
(Prescott et al. 1982, p. 246, pl. 349, f. 9, 11)
[Pl. VIII, f. 257, 258]
Cells small, 1.3-1.5 times longer than broad; median constriction a broad
invagination, the sinus a notch, the isthmus narrow and elongated; semicells
obversely triangular, the basal margins slightly convex and diverging directly to
the apical angles which are capitate-inflated and bear a slender, slightly curved,
downward projected spine; apical margin convex and somewhat elevated in the
mid sector; cell wall smooth; in vertical view cell triangular, the margins concave
between the inflated lobes which bear a curved spines at the apex.
Length: 30-32 µm, Breadth: 39-42 µm (with spine), Breadth: 25-27 µm (without
spine), Isthmus: 6-7 µm.
SYSTEMATIC PART
213
Collection No. DD-379, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with deep green filamentous mass floating freely on the surface of water bloom
(pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
12. Staurastrum margaritaceum (Ehrenberg) Ralfs
(West et al. 1923, p. 131, pl. 150, f. 5-9; Prescott et al. 1982, p. 248, pl. 390, f. 1,
3; pl. 391, f. 1, 2; Lenzenweger 1997, p. 103, pl. 31, f. 1-5)
[Pl. VIII, f. 261, 262]
Cells small, slightly longer than broad; median constriction shallow, the sinus an
open notch at the apex of a broad invagination; semicells cup-shaped, the basal
margins slightly convex and diverging to stout, truncate lateral projections at the
apex which mostly are horizontally directed; the apical margin convex; face of the
semicells with vertical series of granules encircling the arms and with a transverse
series of supra-isthmial granules; in vertical view cell 5-rayed, the margins deeply
concave between broadly rounded lobes with transverse series of granules over
the lobes and on the body of the cell except the midregion.
Length: 26-28 µm, Breadth: 29-30 µm, Isthmus: 8-9 µm.
Collection No. DD-389, 06.11.2009 Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
light green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Madhya Pradesh (Agarkar &
Agarkar 1979); Gujarat (Kumar & Patel 1990b).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
13. Staurastrum muticum (Brébisson) Ralfs var. muticum f. minus Rabenhorst
(West & GS West 1912, p. 133, pl. 118, f. 16-20; Prescott et al. 1982, p. 257, pl.
332, f. 1-3, 5)
[Pl. VII, f. 223-225]
Cells medium sized, very slightly longer than broad; semicells narrowly elliptic-
oval, wide; the dorsal margins less convex than the ventral; medium constriction
deep, the sinus obtusely rounded at the apex, linear but open; in vertical view cells
triangular, narrowly rounded at the angles, the margins retuse between the lobes;
cell wall finely and densely punctate.
SYSTEMATIC PART
214
Length: 21-22 µm, Breadth: 19-21 µm, Isthmus: 7-8 µm.
Collection No. DD-584, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with
greenish scum with wet mosses growing on soil (pH 6.5, temp. 15ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
14. Staurastrum orbiculare (Ehrenberg) Ralfs
(Prescott et al. 1982, p. 268, pl. 330, f. 3; pl. 331, f. 15, 16)
[Pl. VIII, f. 253, 254]
Cells medium sized, very slightly broader than long; median constriction deep, the
sinus slightly dilated at the apex, linear, closed; basal angles rounded; cell wall
punctate; in vertical view cell triangular, the margins concave between broadly
rounded lobes.
Length: 16-17 µm, Breadth: 17-18 µm, Isthmus: 6-7 µm.
This form is very close to S. muticum (Brébisson) Ralfs since the sinus is linear
and acute angled, the taxon has been placed under S. orbiculare. However our
plant is smaller than the typical and the existing varieties of St. orbiculare.
Collection No. DD-379, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with deep green filamentous mass floating freely on the surface of water forming
bloom (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Vidarbh, Maharashtra (Kamat
1975); Nagpur (Freitas & Kamat 1979); Gujarat (Kumar & Patel 1990b).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
15. Staurastrum orbiculare (Ehrenberg) Ralfs var. minor Prescott
(Prescott et al. 1982, p. 269, pl. 331, f. 8)
[Pl. VII, f. 233-235]
Cells small, very slightly broader than long, almost circular in general outline;
median constriction deep, the sinus slightly dilated at the apex, linear, closed;
semicells sub-semicircular, the apex slightly depressed but broadly rounded; basal
angles rounded; cell wall punctate; in vertical view cell triangular, the margins
concave between broadly rounded lobes.
Length: 20-22 µm, Breadth: 22-25 µm, Isthmus: 10-11 µm.
SYSTEMATIC PART
215
Collection No. DD-585, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. With phytoplankton
sample collected from a small waterfall (pH 6.5, temp. 15ºC).
Indian distribution: Kashmir (Compère 1983).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
16. Staurastrum punculatum (Brébisson) Ralfs var. subproductum West et GS West
(West & GS West 1912, p. 182, pl. 127, f. 15; Prescott et al. 1982, p. 294, pl. 339,
f. 8)
[Pl. VIII, f. 251, 252]
Cells small, very slightly longer than broad, cuneiform; median constriction deep,
the sinus acute at the apex, open; semicells elliptical, the dorsal margins somewhat
more convex than the ventral, the ventral margins diverging directly into the
apical angles which are slightly produced and narrowly rounded; the apical
margins concave, slightly elevated in the midsector; cell wall with concentric
series of granules over the lobes; cells in vertical view triangular, the margins
slightly convex, the lobes narrowly rounded and produced with concentric series
of granules.
Length: 30-33 µm, Breadth: 29-32 µm, Isthmus: 13-15 µm.
Collection No. DD-191, 19.04.2009, Yoksum, Sikkim. In association with
greenish scum in stagnant water under a small falls (pH 5.5, temp. 18ºC)
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
17. Staurastrum sonthalianum Turner
(Turner 1892, p. 124, t. 14, f. 27; Prescott et al. 1982, p. 314, pl. 442, f. 1)
[Pl. VII, f. 231, 232]
Cells large, 1.5-1.6 times broader than long; median constriction deep, the sinus
open; semicells broadly cyathiform, the vertical margin concave and then
diverging into the apical angles which are produced to form very long, tapering
and downwardly directed spines, the processes of the 2 semicells nearly in contact
at their apices, the apical and dorsal margins, including the apical margin
decorated with a continuous series of low verrucae, the processes tipped with 2
teeth; wall smooth.
Length: 32-34 µm, Breadth: 51-52 µm, Isthmus: 6-8 µm.
SYSTEMATIC PART
216
Collection No. DD-382, 06.11.2009 Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association with
green filamentous mass attached to the surface of the submerged aquatic plants
(pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Kodaikanal, Tamilnadu (Singh
& Balasingh 2011); Kolhapur, Maharashtra (Leela et al. 2012).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
18. Staurastrum striolatum (Nageli) Archer var. striolatum f. brasiliense Turner
(Prescott et al. 1982, p. 318, pl. 338, f. 16, 18)
[Pl. VII, f. 219-221]
Cells small, about as long as broad; median constriction shallow, sinus open U-
shaped, semicells narrowly sub-elliptic; in vertical view cells 4-radiate, margins
deeply convex between the processes, processes short with blunt endings with
rounded angles; processes horizontally placed and furnished with 3 vertical series
of granules; apical margins truncate; face of the semicells with scattered granules;
cell wall smooth.
Length: 22-23 µm, Breadth: 23-26 µm, Isthmus: 4-5 µm.
Collection No. DD-583, 12.11.2009, Namchi, Sikkim. In association with
greenish-brown scum with mosses in a small rock pool (pH 6.5, temp. 14ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
19. Staurastrum talisheekense Scott et Gronblad
(Prescott et al. 1982, p. 329, pl. 441, f. 2)
[Pl. VIII, f. 246-248]
Cells medium sized, about as long as broad; median constriction shallow, sinus
broad with slight notch, semicells cyathiform, broadly bowl shaped, basal margins
inflated; end view cells 6-radiate, processes short, slightly attenuated to truncate
extremities having small 5-5 spines at the tips, margins deeply concave between
processes; lateral processes furnished with 3 vertical rows of granules; apical
margins broadly convex, with a circular ring of small spines leaving median
portion smooth; cell wall smooth.
Length: 41-44 µm, Breadth: 41-45 µm, Isthmus: 15-16 µm.
SYSTEMATIC PART
217
Collection No. DD-389, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with light green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: This is probably the first report of the taxon from India.
20. Staurastrum tetracerum (Kutzing) Ralfs var. tetracerum
(West et al. 1923, p. 118, pl. 149, f. 2, 3; Prescott et al. 1982, p. 331, pl. 402, f. 5,
7, 9)
[Pl. VIII, f. 263, 264]
Cells very small, as broad as long including the processes; median constriction
deep, forming a V-shaped invagination, the sinus with a sub-acute apex; semicells
conversely triangular, the lower margins diverging directly from the sinus into the
apical angles which are extended to form upward diverging processes, the margins
serrulate but apparently without teeth at the apices; the apical margin concave, in
apical view cell bi-radiate.
Length: 21-23 µm, Breadth: 16-18 µm, Isthmus: 3-4 µm.
Collection No. DD- 387, 06.11.2009, Bitang cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with greenish-brown scum on the surface of the wet rock (pH 6, temp 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Assam (Carter 1926); Ahmadabad (Kamat 1962), Pakhal
Lake, Andhra Pradesh (Suxena & Venkateswarlu 1966a); Gwalior, Madhya
Pradesh (Agarkar 1971); Hyderabad (Munawar 1974; Rao 1975); Nagpur (Freitas
& Kamat 1979); Allahabad (Pandey & Pandey 1980); Kashmir (Compère 1983);
Gujarat (Kumar & Patel 1990b); Kolhapur, Maharashtra (Leela et al. 2012).
XVII. Teilingia Bourrelly
Cells small, more or less flattened, with deep median constriction, shaped compressed
elliptic or quadrangular, united into filaments, apex flat, bearing on the outer margin a
pair of small granules, granules may be present on the lateral walls or on the face of
the semicells, rarely granules replaced by short spines, cells united end to end with
those apical granules. Cells wall without any further ornamentations; chloroplast
single, axial with single pyrenoids in each semicell.
SYSTEMATIC PART
218
Key to the taxa investigated:
1. Lateral margins of semicells smooth, sinus shallow………...….....…(1) T. excavata
1. Lateral margins with 3 granules, sinus rather deep…………......…..(2) T. granulata
1. Teilingia excavata (Ralfs) Bourelly var. excavata
(Lenzenweger 1997, p. 147, pl. 43, f. 24; Croasdale et al. 1983, p. 7, pl. 450, f. 1-
5)
[Pl. XXVI, f. 433, 434]
Cells small, as long as broad; sinus openly wide with obtuse interior; apex
flattened, bearing 4 very small, widely spread granule like ‘connecting processes’;
semicells broadly oval in face view; cell wall smooth; cells joined end to end
loosely by connecting processes forming short pseudo-filament.
Length: 7-8 µm, Breadth: 7-8 µm, Isthmus: 5-7 µm.
Collection No. DD-418, 06.11.2009, Mamencho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Kashmir (Compère 1983).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
2. Teilingia granulata (Roy et Bisset) Bourrelly
(Lenzenweger 1997, p. 148, pl. 43, f. 23; Croasdale et al. 1983, p. 9, pl. 451, f. 3-
5)
[Pl. XXVI, f. 431, 432]
Cells smooth, slightly broader than long, flatly rounded at the apex, which bears 4
granules, moderately deeply incised, the sinus widely open, rounded in the
interior; semicells oblong, lateral margins rounded, bearing a clusters of small
granules, usually 3 marginal ones only; remaining wall smooth; cells attached end
to end by the apical granules to form long filaments.
Length: 13-15 µm, Breadth: 12-14 µm, Apex: 6-7 µm, Thickness: 8-9 µm.
Collection No. DD-379, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with light green filaments floating freely on the surface of the water o(pH, 6 temp
10ºC).
SYSTEMATIC PART
219
Indian distribution: Kashmir (Compère 1983); Kolhapur, Maharashtra (Leela et
al. 2012).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
XVIII. Triplastrum Iyengar et Ramanathan
Cells solitary, cylindrical with slight median constriction, 6-8 times longer than broad,
poles truncate, at the apex 3 short lobes each bearing 1-4 spines; chloroplast stellate or
axial plate with longitudinal ridges and 2-4 pyrenoids in each semicells.
1. Triplastrum abbreviatum (Turner) Iyengar et Ramanathan
(Iyengar & Ramanathan 1942, p. 228, f. 6)
[Pl. XXVI, f. 429, 430]
Cells with a shallow median constriction, semicells straight 6-8 times longer than
broad, cylindrical end truncated and inflated forming 3 shallow lobes; each
bearing single spines; chloroplast stellate in median series, pyrenoids 2 in each
semicells.
Length: 79-82 µm. Breadth: 7-8 µm.
Collection No. DD-582, 10.11.2009, Sungure, Sikkim. In association with
greenish-brown mucilaginous mass hanging from rock wall beside a small
waerfalls (pH 6, temp. 16ºC).
Indian distribution: South India (Iyengar & Ramanathan 1942).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
XIX. Triploceras Bailey
Cells solitary, elongate, sub-cylindrical 8-20 times longer than broad with shallow
median incision, only slightly tapering to the apex, lateral margins undulate with
several whorls of mamillate protuberances, each bearing a simple or bifid short spines
sometimes an emarginate verruca. Apex truncate, sometimes concave and 2-4 furcate,
SYSTEMATIC PART
220
usually with two spines on each apical process. Chloroplast axial, single in each
semicells, stellate in end view with axial row of pyrenoids. Chloroplast with
longitudinal lamellae.
1. Triploceras gracile Bailey var. gracile
(Krieger 1937, p. 442, pl. 52, f. 1-7; Prescott et al. 1975, p. 143, pl. 51, f. 7-14)
[Pl. XXVI, f. 419, 420]
Cells elongate, subcylindric, 10-11 times longer than broad; semicells slightly
tapered from base to apex, with 9 whorls of 13 low, mammilate spine; spines in
upper few whorls directed upward, in lower whorls outward or straight; apex
divided into 3 short processes each tipped with paired short spines; usually a pair
of blunt spines between the primary forks.
Length: 450-457 µm, Breadth: 43-45 µm, Apex: 26-32 µm.
Collection No. DD-382, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green filamentous mass attached to the surface of the submerged aquatic
plants (pH 6, temp 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Tamilnadu (Ramanathan
1962); Karnataka (Bharati 1965b; Gurudeva et al. 1983); West Bengal (Mallick &
Keshri 2009).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
XX. Xanthidium Ehrenberg ex Ralfs
Cells solitary, slightly compressed, with deep median constriction in the midregion.
Semicells ellipsoidal, polygonal, oval, rarely triangular. Each semicell usually with 2-
4 or more simple or furcated, short or long, stout, sometimes blunt spines, laterally
aligned, usually in pairs. Face of the semicells usually smooth, sometimes with small
protuberance having rings of small pores or a protuberance bearing short or long
spine. Cell wall thick and generally smooth but sometimes with scattered pores.
Chloroplast 2 in each semicells with one or more pyrenoid.
Key to the taxa investigated:
SYSTEMATIC PART
221
1. Face of the semicells smooth, semicells sub-elliptic-hexagonal, spines long
2. Semicells sub-elliptical, basal and apical angles with a pair of spines
...…(2) X. antilopaeum var. antilopaeum f. antilopaeum
2. Semicells sub-elliptic-haxagonal, apical angles having a pair of spines but basal
angles having a single spine instead lateral walls having a pair of spines
…..….(3) X. antilopaeum var. antilopaeum f. javonicum
1. Face of the semicells with scatteredly placed pores, semicells oval
………………………………...…(1) X. acanthophorum
1. Xanthidium acanthophorum Nordstedt
(Ling & Tyler 1986, p. 56, pl. 23, f. 4-6)
[Pl. XXVIII, f. 492, 493]
Cells medium sized, 1.1-1.2 times longer than broad; semicells oval, median
constriction deep, the sinus open, acute angled; lateral margin slightly convex and
very slightly attenuated at the apex, furnished with 4 long blunt spines in each side
which are in pairs, spines slightly curved; apex flat, also having two pairs of long,
straight blunt spines leaving the central space; face of the semicells having several
pores scatteredly arranged in the centre; chloroplast 2 per semicells.
Length: 52-55 µm (with spines), 42-45 µm (without spines); Breadth: 42-46µm
(with spines), 32-35 µm (without spines), Isthmus: 14-16 µm.
Collection No. DD-130, Khechiperi Lake, Sikkim. In association with green
filaments growing attached on pebbles & submerged weeds from a drain beside
the Lake (pH 4.5, temp. 17ºC).
Indian distribution: Eastern India (Turner 1892); Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
(Agarkar 1969).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
2. Xanthidium antilopaeum (Brébisson) Kutzing
(West & GS West 1912, p. 63, pl. 108, f. 7-18; Prescott et al. 1982, p. 46, pl. 311,
f. 7, 8; pl. 317, f. 8; Lenzenweger 1997, p. 9, pl. 18, f. 11-13, pl. 19, f. 1, 2)
[Pl. XXIX, f. 494, 495]
SYSTEMATIC PART
222
Cells medium sized, slightly broader than long; median constriction deep, sinus
linear, closed; semicells subelliptic-hexagonal, angles slightly rounded, each of
the four exposed angles furnished with a pair of simple, straight, long spines;
apex slightly retuse.
Length: 61-63 µm (with spines), 42-44 µm (without spines); Breadth: 71-74µm
(with spines), 49-51 µm (without spines), Isthmus: 20-22 µm.
Collection No. DD-398, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with light green filaments on the surface of the water (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Kodaikanal, (Bharati & Pai 1972); Allahabad (Pandey &
Pandey 1980); Namchi, Sikkim (Santra & Pal 2006); Muriyad, Kerala
(Sanilkumar & Thomas 2006).
3. Xanthidium antilopaeum (Brébisson) Kutzing var. antilopaeum f. javonicum
Nordstedt
(Prescott et al. 1982, p. 47, pl. 314, f. 2)
[Pl. XXIX, f. 496-498]
Cells medium sized, subelliptical-hexagonal, very slightly longer than broad,
median constriction deep, sinus linear, acute angled, closed but open in the outer
half; lateral walls and apex retuse; angles slightly rounded; semicells have 4 stout,
straight spines on each lateral margin, 2 spines inserted at the upper angles,
normally attached side by side and other 2 approximately near the lateral angles
and disposed about in a median vertical plane; the basal angles having only one
spine.
Length: 61-64 µm (with spines), 43-46 µm (without spines); Breadth: 58-61µm
(with spines), 40-43 µm (without spines), Isthmus: 17-18 µm.
Collection No. DD-380, 06.11.2009, Bitang-cho Lake, Sikkim. In association
with green scum in a swamp (pH 6, temp. 10ºC).
Indian distribution: Bombay & Karnatak (Bharati 1966).
This is the first report of the taxon from Eastern Himalaya.
General Discussion
and Conclusion
GENERAL DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION
223
GENERAL DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION
During the present systematic investigation on desmid biodiversity of certain regions
of Eastern Himalaya emphasis has been given to explore the accessible water bodies
of entire Sikkim state and certain parts of northern region of West Bengal like
Kalimpong, Lava and Lolegaon etc.
Desmids including phytoplankton serve as primary producer in food chain. Those
photosynthetic green and blue-green algae contribute about 70% oxygen productions
on the Earth. They also contribute in the pedogenesis from soil surface including the
biomass addition on soil. Desmid in particular can serve as indicator of water
pollution. They can be used as typification of water bodies (Brook 1981). It is well
known that desmids prefer little acidic and unpolluted environment. Any minor
change in water chemistry or slight pollution may lead to the reduction in their
availability.
In spite of long exploration works initiated by botanist like Joseph Dalton Hooker
many localities of Sikkim are unexplored phycologically. The target of present
investigation was to explore these minute organisms in view that (i) they will be
available in most of the habitats, (ii) to explore their biodiversity in Eastern
Himalayas, (iii) since tourist activity has changed the scenario whether any
degradation occurred?
Since the lakes of Sikkim were expected to have good cosmos of phyco-flora they
were targeted first. Local peoples of Eastern Himalaya mainly in Sikkim consider
lakes as sacred and monks even don’t allow outsiders to touch the holy water in some
places. In this regard there were several problems in field collection of water samples
from those lakes and water bodies. Therefore several collections were made through
local peoples from several remote places. Difficulties were also faced in the border
regions due to security problems.
As desmids are fresh water members and lodged on the aquatic or semi-aquatic weeds
including the mosses, bog pool proved the better inhabitant of desmid vegetation.
Desmid species were found in association with wet mosses growing on wet soil or
rock surface also. It is observed in present investigation that little acidic pH (5-6.5)
GENERAL DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION
224
situations of bogs support the better availability of desmids as also reported by early
workers. It is also observed in present study that lakes and water bodies that have
forest canopy in and around or having successive weed vegetation besides its margins
are found to be better occupant of desmids as well as other microalgae as compared to
those water bodies having lesser vegetation. This is why Mamencho Lake that have
forest canopy around the lake creating shady, wet environment provided suitable
atmosphere for the growth of the phytoplankton. Bitang-cho Lake, Khechiperi Lake
and few small water bodies in Pelling and Kalimpong have sufficient weed and moss
vegetation in their margins that proved suitable for desmid growth. Conversely,
Changu Lake and Gurudongmar Lake are very poor with plant and weed vegetation
and few members of desmids as well as other phytoplankton were reported in these
lakes. In case of Gurudongmar Lake having an altitude of 17,800 ft, there is no
vegetation at all around the lake in such an altitude. Those regions are considered as
‘cold desert’. Although few members of Closterium, Cosmarium, species of
Oedogonium and Spirogyra have been recorded in this lake. Very interesting
character reported in Kothak Lake, Yoksum, and West Sikkim. This lake having very
less vegetation around it but various members of order Chlorococcales mainly
Scenedesmus and Oocystis reported from its water. It appears to be an indicator of
increasing pollution load. Interestingly water having poor representation of desmids.
Further detailed limnological study may explain these observations. Delo reservoir in
Kalimpong is polluted by external activities. Naturally desmid and other
phytoplankton vegetation were found scanty in number.
Following are some graphical representations of the individuals of algae in
comparison to desmids reported in major investigated lakes of Sikkim and adjoining
regions.
GENERAL DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION
225
Graph I: Graphical representation of desmid members recorded from Mamencho
Lake as compared to other major groups of algae.
Graph II: Graphical representation of desmid members recorded from Bitang-cho
Lake as compared to other major groups of algae.
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
Cyanophyceae
Chlorophyceae
Diatoms
Desmids
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
Cyanophyceae
Chlorophyceae
Diatoms
Desmids
GENERAL DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION
226
Graph III: Graphical representation of desmid members recorded from Khechiperi
Lake as compared to other major groups of algae.
Graph IV: Graphical representation of desmid members recorded from Changu Lake
as compared to other major groups of algae.
0
5
10
15
20
25
Cyanophyceae
Chlorophyceae
Diatoms
Desmids
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
Cyanophyceae
Chlorophyceae
Diatoms
Desmids
GENERAL DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION
227
Graph V: Graphical representation of desmid members recorded from Gurudongmar
Lake as compared to other major groups of algae.
Graph VI: Graphical representation of desmid members recorded from Kothak Lake
as compared to other major groups of algae.
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Cyanophyceae
Chlorophyceae
Diatoms
Desmids
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
Cyanophyceae
Chlorophyceae
Diatoms
Desmids
GENERAL DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION
228
Streams, rivers and waterfalls were found in having very poor phytoplankton
vegetation although some diatoms were observed. However, several members of
desmids as well as other phytoplankton found from rock-pools besides the streams
and waterfalls. Few members were recorded also from mucilage hanging from the
rock walls besides the small waterfalls along with other cyanophycean members. It is
also reported that desmids may found in association with other green algal
filamentous algal bloom such as Spirogyra, Mougeotia etc.
About 1000 algal samples were collected from different localities and almost all
possible habitats in the certain parts of Eastern Himalaya. From those about 650
camera-lucida drawings have been made and their photo-micrographs were taken,
from which 272 taxa under 27 genera of desmid have been identified; 25 taxa under 7
genera of Saccoderm desmids (Mesotaeniaceae) and 247 taxa under 20 genera
belonging to Placoderm desmids (Gonatozygaceae, Peniaceae, Closteriaceae and
Desmidiaceae).
Following is the list of desmids observed indicating their availability:
No. Name of the genera No. of taxa
reported in
the present
investigatio
n
Taxa new
to
Eastern
Himalaya
Taxa
new to
India
New to science
Species Variety Total
no. of
new
taxa
1 Actinotaenium C
9 8 3 1 1
2 Ancylonema RR
1 1 1
3 Arthrodesmus C
4 4 3
4 Closterium CC
64 27 15 6 5 11
5 Cosmarium CC
81 43 21 7 5 12
6 Cylindrocystis C
4 2 1
7 Desmidium C
3 1 1
8 Euastrum CC
18 15 9
9 Genicularia R
1 1 1
GENERAL DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION
229
10 Gonatozygon C
4 2 2
11 Haplotaenium R
1 1 1
12 Hyalotheca C
3 2
13 Mesataenium C
5 5 2
14 Micrasterias C
9 5
15 Netrium C
10 8 5
16 Onychonema R
2 1
17 Penium C
5 4 4
18 Pleurotaenium C
14 12 7
19 Roya R
2 2 2
20 Spirotaenia R
1 1
21 Spondylosium C
2 1
22 Staurastrum CC
20 19 7
23 Teilingia C
2 2
24 Tortitaenia R
2 1 1
25 Triplastrum R
1 1
26 Triploceras RR
1 1
27 Xanthidium C 3 2
Total 272 172 86 14 10 24
RR = Very Rare
R = Rare
C = Common
CC = Very Common
Total 232 desmid taxa were reported by earlier workers (Dickie1882, Prasad & Misra
1987, Rout & Gaur 1994, Gupta 2002, Kumar & Rai 2005, Santra & Pal 2006,
GENERAL DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION
230
Suseela & Toppo 2006, Bhakta et al. 2010, Deca et al. 2011, Yasmin et al. 2011, Das
& Keshri 2012) from different regions of Eastern Himalaya.
Graph VI: Graphical representation of desmid taxa reported by earlier workers and in
the present study.
Chart I: Pie chart showing genus-wise taxa recorded in the present study from
Eastern Himalaya.
210
220
230
240
250
260
270
280
Desmid taxa reported
by early workers
Desmid taxa recorded
in the present study
Desmid taxa reported by
early workers
Desmid taxa recorded in
the present study
Actinotaenium
Ancylonema
Arthrodesmus
Closterium
Cosmarium
Cylindrocystis
Desmidium
Euastrum
Genicularia
Gonatozygon
Haplotaenium
Hyalotheca
Mesataenium
Micrasterius
Netrium
Onychonema
GENERAL DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION
231
Out of 272 taxa 24 taxa under 3 genera were described as new to science. In addition,
one new combination has been proposed in the genus Cosmarium [C. cohnii (Nobilis)
Keshri et Das comb. nov.]. 6 genera (Ancylonema, Roya, Spirotaenia, Teilingia,
Triplastrum and Triploceras) are new addition to the desmid flora of Eastern
Himalaya. 86 taxa under 18 genera are new addition to Indian desmid flora, and 172
taxa are new addition to Eastern Himalaya desmid flora.
From the above findings it is clear that Eastern Himalaya is very extremely rich in
desmid vegetation as well as other phytoplankton. Further continued systematic
investigation may contribute our knowledge about algal population of Eastern
Himalaya. Also detailed limnological study on different water bodies may explain the
correlation between availability of phytoplankton in relation to environmental
conditions.
From this investigation following inferences have been made:
1. There is a serious lacuna in the exploration of phyco-flora in concern.
2. Identification part of the available literature on phytoplankton is to be reassessed.
3. Exploration of the lakes and water bodies in Eastern Himalaya need urgent
attention since the available data may help to protect these water bodies in addition
to the welfare of the local inhabitants.
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Figures
PLATE I
1. Ancylonema nordenskioeldii
2. Ancylonema nordenskioeldii
3. Cylindrocystis crassa var. crassa
4. Cylindrocystis brebisonii var.
brebisonii
5. Cylindrocystis brebisonii var.
brebisonii
6. Cylindrocystis brebisonii var. minor
7. Cylindrocystis brebisonii var. minor
8. Cylindrocystis brebisonii var.
jenneri
9. Cylindrocystis brebisonii var.
jenneri
10. Mesotaenium macrococcum var.
macrococcum
11. Mesotaenium macrococcum var.
macrococcum
12. Mesotaenium degreyii var. breve
13. Mesotaenium chlamydosporum var.
violascens
14. Mesotaenium chlamydosporum var.
violascens
15. Mesotaenium macrococcum var.
minus
16. Mesotaenium chlamydosporum var.
violascens
17. Mesotaenium chlamydosporum var.
violascens
18. Mesotaenium chlamydosporum var.
chlamydosporum
19. Mesotaenium chlamydosporum var.
chlamydosporum
20. Mesotaenium macrococcum var.
minus
21. Tortitaenia alpina
22. Tortitaenia obscura
23. Tortitaenia obscura
24. Tortitaenia obscura
25. Roya obtusa var. obtusa
26. Roya obtusa var. obtusa
27. Roya obtuse var. montana
28. Roya obtusa var. montana
29. Spirotaenia condensata
30. Spirotaenia condensata
31. Spirotaenia condensata
32. Spirotaenia condensata
33. Netrium digitus var. curtum
PLATE II
34. Netrium digitus var. naegelii
35. Netrium digitus var. digitus
36. Netrium digitus var. rectum
37. Netrium oblongum var. oblongum
38. Netrium interruptum var. minor
39. Netrium interruptum var. sectum
40. Netrium interruptum var. sectum
41. Netrium oblongum var.
cylindricum
42. Netrium oblongum var.
cylindricum
43. Netrium oblongum var.
acuminatum
44. Netrium oblongum var.
acuminatum
45. Netrium oblongum var.
acuminatum
46. Netrium minus
47. Actinotaenium australe
48. Actinotaenium australe
49. Actinotaenium capax var. minus
50. Actinotaenium capax var. minus
51. Actinotaenium sikkimicum sp. nov.
52. Actinotaenium sikkimicum sp. nov.
53. Actinotaenium subglobosum
54. Actinotaenium subglobosum
PLATE III
55. Actinotaenium subglobosum
56. Actinotaenium curtum var. curtum
f. minus
57. Actinotaenium curtum var. curtum
f. minus
58. Actinotaenium curtum var. curtum
f. minus
59. Actinotaenium globosum var.
globosum
60. Actinotaenium cucurbitinum var.
cucurbitinum f. minutum
61. Actinotaenium cucurbita var.
cucurbita f. rotundatum
62. Actinotaenium diplosporum var.
americanum
63. Arthrodesmus convergens var.
convergens
64. Arthrodesmus convergens var.
convergens
65. Arthrodesmus convergens var.
convergens
66. Arthrodesmus extensus var.
extensus
67. Arthrodesmus extensus var.
extensus
68. Arthrodesmus convergens var.
incrassatus
69. Arthrodesmus convergens var.
incrassatus
70. Arthrodesmus curvatus var.
americanus
71. Arthrodesmus curvatus var.
americanus
72. Arthrodesmus curvatus var.
americanus
73. Arthrodesmus curvatus var.
americanus
74. Cosmarium cyclicum var. crassum
75. Cosmarium subquadratum
76. Cosmarium quadratum var.
quadratum f. boreale
77. Cosmarium quadratum var.
quadratum f. willei
78. Cosmarium pseudoexiguum
79. Cosmarium yoksomum sp. nov.
80. Cosmarium granatum var.
elongatum
81. Cosmarium vittanum
82. Cosmarium angulatum f. major
83. Cosmarium angulatum f. major
84. Cosmarium angulatum f. major
85. Cosmarium naegelianum
86. Cosmarium naegelianum
87. Cosmarium garrolense var.
garrolense f. dimidio-minus
88. Cosmarium garrolense var.
garrolense f. dimidio-minus
89. Cosmarium galeritum var.
subtumidum
PLATE IV
90. Cosmarium galeritum var.
subtumidum
91. Cosmarium galeritum var.
subtumidum
92. Cosmarium levinotabile
93. Cosmarium garrolense
94. Cosmarium undulatum var. wollei
95. Cosmarium undulatum var. wollei
96. Cosmarium minimum var.
subrotundum
97. Cosmarium minimum var.
subrotundum
98. Cosmarium impressulum var.
suborthogonum
99. Cosmarium impressulum var.
suborthogonum
100. Cosmarium impressulum var.
suborthogonum
101. Cosmarium impressulum var.
suborthogonum
102. Cosmarium cymatopleurum
103. Cosmarium portianum var.
nephroideum
104. Cosmarium portianum var.
nephroideum
105. Cosmarium cycladatum
106. Cosmarium cycladatum
107. Cosmarium contractum var.
minutum
108. Cosmarium contractum var.
minutum
109. Cosmarium contractum var.
minutum
110. Cosmarium contractum var.
minutum
111. Cosmarium moniliforme var.
moniliforme
112. Cosmarium pakistanicum
113. Cosmarium pakistanicum
114. Cosmarium tyrolicum
115. Cosmarium pseudodebaryi sp.
nov.
116. Cosmarium pseudodebaryi sp.
nov.
117. Cosmarium undulatum var.
alaskanum f. reductum
118. Cosmarium undulatum var.
alaskanum f. reductum
119. Cosmarium undulatum var.
alaskanum f. reductum
120. Cosmarium undulatum var.
alaskanum f. reductum
121. Cosmarium hammeri var.
protuberans
122. Cosmarium hammeri var.
protuberans
123. Cosmarium depressum var.
depressum f. minutum
124. Cosmarium hammeri var.
hammeri
PLATE V
125. Cosmarium cohnii comb. nov.
126. Cosmarium cohnii comb. nov.
127. Cosmarium connatum var.
connatum
128. Cosmarium connatum var.
connatum
129. Cosmarium amoenum var.
intumescens
130. Cosmarium botrytis var.
mediolaeve
131. Cosmarium pseudocyclicum sp.
nov.
132. Cosmarium pseudocyclicum sp.
nov.
133. Cosmarium pseudamoenum
134. Cosmarium pseudamoenum
135. Cosmarium granatum var.
subangulare
136. Cosmarium granatum var.
granatum
137. Cosmarium granatum var.
granatum
138. Cosmarium granatum var.
granatum
139. Cosmarium hammeri var.
schmidlei
140. Cosmarium rosae
141. Cosmarium rosae
142. Cosmarium montrealense
143. Cosmarium phaseolus var.
phaseolus f. minus
144. Cosmarium pseudo-obsoletum sp.
nov.
145. Cosmarium connatum var.
depressum
146. Cosmarium transitorium
147. Cosmarium moniliforme forma
148. Cosmarium laeve var.
octangulare
149. Cosmarium subcucumis var.
subcucumis
150. Cosmarium subcucumis var.
subcucumis
151. Cosmarium subcucumis var.
subcucumis
152. Cosmarium subcucumis var.
subcucumis
153. Cosmarium quadrum var. minus
154. Cosmarium reniforme var. minor
155. Cosmarium reniforme var. minor
156. Cosmarium quadrum var.
quadrum
157. Cosmarium quadrum var.
quadrum
158. Cosmarium subcrenatum
159. Cosmarium sinostegos
PLATE VI
160. Cosmarium quadrum var.
quadrum
161. Cosmarium quadrum var.
quadrum
162. Cosmarium longicylindricum var.
indicum
163. Cosmarium longicylindricum var.
indicum
164. Cosmarium garrolense var. minus
165. Cosmarium garrolense var. minus
166. Cosmarium pyramidatum var.
indicum var. nov.
167. Cosmarium pyramidatum var.
indicum var. nov.
168. Cosmarium pyramidatum var.
indicum var. nov.
169. Cosmarium undulatum var.
indicum var. nov.
170. Cosmarium undulatum var.
indicum var. nov.
171. Cosmarium nitidulum
172. Cosmarium nitidulum
173. Cosmarium javanicum
174. Cosmarium javanicum
175. Cosmarium pseudolundellii sp.
nov.
176. Cosmarium phaseolus var.
phaseolus
177. Cosmarium subtumidum
178. Cosmarium subtumidum
179. Cosmarium subphaseolanum sp.
nov.
180. Cosmarium subphaseolanum sp.
nov.
181. Cosmarium coarctatum
182. Cosmarium coarctatum
183. Cosmarium pseudopyramidatum
184. Cosmarium pseudopyramidatum
185. Cosmarium ornatum var.
sikkimicum var. nov.
186. Cosmarium ornatum var.
sikkimicum var. nov.
187. Cosmarium portianum forma
188. Cosmarium portianum forma
189. Cosmarium baffinense
190. Cosmarium baffinense
191. Cosmarium dorsitruncatum var.
pseudoscenedesmus
192. Cosmarium dorsitruncatum var.
pseudoscenedesmus
193. Cosmarium portianum
194. Cosmarium portianum
195. Cosmarium portianum
196. Cosmarium tithophorum
197. Cosmarium tithophorum
198. Cosmarium trilobulatum
199. Cosmarium sikkimicum sp. nov.
200. Cosmarium sikkimicum sp. nov.
201. Cosmarium favum var. indicum
var. nov.
202. Cosmarium favum var. indicum
var. nov.
PLATE VII
203. Cosmarium lundelli var.
ellipticum
204. Cosmarium lundelli var.
ellipticum
205. Cosmarium obsoletum
206. Cosmarium obsoletum
207. Cosmarium nudum
208. Cosmarium nudum
209. Cosmarium undulatum var.
minutum
210. Cosmarium undulatum var.
minutum
211. Cosmarium impressulum var.
impressulum
212. Cosmarium impressulum var.
impressulum
213. Cosmarium depressum var.
reniforme
214. Cosmarium depressum var.
reniforme
215. Cosmarium retusiforme
216. Cosmarium retusiforme
217. Cosmarium regnesi
218. Cosmarium regnesi
219. Staurastrum striolatum var.
striolatum f. brasiliense
220. Staurastrum striolatum var.
striolatum f. brasiliense
221. Staurastrum striolatum var.
striolatum f. brasiliense
222. Staurastrum bieneanum var.
bieneanum
223. Staurastrum muticum var.
muticum f. minus
224. Staurastrum muticum var.
muticum f. minus
225. Staurastrum muticum var.
muticum f. minus
226. Staurastrum botanense var.
botanense
227. Staurastrum botanense var.
botanense
228. Staurastrum botanense var.
botanense
229. Staurastrum longibrachiatum
230. Staurastrum longibrachiatum
231. Staurastrum sonthalianum
232. Staurastrum sonthalianum
233. Staurastrum orbiculare var.
minor
234. Staurastrum orbiculare var.
minor
235. Staurastrum orbiculare var.
minor
236. Staurastrum dejectum var. patens
237. Staurastrum dejectum var. patens
238. Staurastrum dejectum var. patens
239. Staurastrum habeebense
240. Staurastrum habeebense
PLATE VIII
241. Staurastrum duplex
242. Staurastrum duplex
243. Staurastrum duplex
244. Staurastrum bifidum
245. Staurastrum bifidum
246. Staurastrum talisheekense
247. Staurastrum talisheekense
248. Staurastrum talisheekense
249. Staurastrum lapponicum
250. Staurastrum lapponicum
251. Staurastrum punculatum var.
subproductum
252. Staurastrum punculatum var.
subproductum
253. Staurastrum orbiculare
254. Staurastrum orbiculare
255. Staurastrum bieneanum var.
bieneanum
256. Staurastrum bieneanum var.
bieneanum
257. Staurastrum mamillatum
258. Staurastrum mamillatum
259. Staurastrum bieneanum var.
ellipticum
260. Staurastrum bieneanum var.
ellipticum
261. Staurastrum margaritaceum
262. Staurastrum margaritaceum
263. Staurastrum tetracerum var.
tetracerum
264. Staurastrum tetracerum var.
tetracerum
265. Staurastrum longibrachiatum var.
inflatum
266. Staurastrum longibrachiatum var.
inflatum
PLATE IX
267. Closterium rectimarginatum
268. Closterium pritchardianum var.
pritchardianum f. attenuata
269. Closterium acerosum var.
tumidum
270. Closterium kuetzingii var.
kuetzingii
271. Closterium kuetzingii var.
kuetzingii
PLATE X
272. Closterium lunula var. lunula f.
minor
273. Closterium lunula var. lunula f.
minor
274. Closterium mamenchoenum sp.
nov.
PLATE XI
275. Closterium mamenchoenum sp.
nov.
276. Closterium striolatum var.
erectum
277. Closterium striolatum var.
erectum
278. Closterium subjuncidiforme
279. Closterium subjuncidiforme
PLATE XII
280. Closterium subjuncidiforme
281. Closterium subjuncidiforme
282. Closterium subjuncidiforme
283. Closterium rectimarginatum
forma
PLATE XIII
284. Closterium ehrenbergii var.
malinvernianum
285. Closterium ehrenbergii var.
malinvernianum
286. Closterium abruptum var. brevius
287. Closterium abruptum var. brevius
288. Closterium ehrenbergii var.
malinvernianum
289. Closterium ehrenbergii var.
malinvernianum
290. Closterium subcosticum
291. Closterium subcosticum
PLATE XIV
292. Closterium striolatum var.
subtruncatum
293. Closterium striolatum var.
subtruncatum
294. Closterium minutum var. indicum
var. nov.
295. Closterium minutum var. indicum
var. nov.
296. Closterium minutum var. indicum
var. nov.
297. Closterium dianae var. brevius
298. Closterium calosporum var.
calosporum f. erectum
299. Closterium parvulum var.
obtusum
300. Closterium parvulum var.
obtusum
301. Closterium venus var. crassum
302. Closterium parvulum var.
parvulum
303. Closterium parvulum var.
parvulum
304. Closterium navicula var. navicula
PLATE XV
305. Closterium reticulatum sp. nov.
306. Closterium moniliferum var.
submoniliferum
307. Closterium moniliferum var.
submoniliferum
308. Closterium planum
309. Closterium planum
310. Closterium planum
311. Closterium planum
PLATE XVI
312. Closterium ehrenbergii var.
ehrenbergii forma
313. Closterium ehrenbergii var.
ehrenbergii forma
314. Closterium libellula var.
sikkimense var. nov.
315. Closterium libellula var.
sikkimense var. nov.
316. Closterium tumidulum forma
317. Closterium tumidulum forma
318. Closterium littorale var. indicum
var. nov.
319. Closterium libellula var. libellula
f. libellula
320. Closterium libellula var. libellula
f. libellula
PLATE XVII
321. Closterium eboracense
322. Closterium eboracense
323. Closterium ehrenbergii var.
ehrenbergii
324. Closterium dianae var. minor
325. Closterium dianae var. minor
326. Closterium libellula var.
intermedium
327. Closterium libellula var.
intermedium
328. Closterium tacomense
329. Closterium tacomense
330. Closterium acutum
331. Closterium acutum
PLATE XVIII
332. Closterium pseudolunula
333. Closterium pseudolunula
334. Closterium pseudolunula
335. Closterium pseudolunula
336. Closterium arcuarium var.
sikkimense var. nov.
337. Closterium bitangchoianum sp.
nov.
338. Closterium bitangchoianum sp.
nov.
339. Closterium incurvum var.
incurvum
340. Closterium incurvum var.
incurvum
341. Closterium abruptum var.
abruptum
342. Closterium abruptum var.
abruptum
343. Closterium abruptum var.
abruptum
344. Closterium parvulum forma
345. Closterium parvulum forma
346. Closterium tumidulum
347. Closterium tumidulum
PLATE XIX
348. Closterium lunula var. lunula
349. Closterium moniliferum var.
moniliferum
350. Closterium incurvum forma 1
351. Closterium elenkinii
352. Closterium elenkinii
353. Closterium cynthia var. cynthia
354. Closterium cynthia var. cynthia
355. Closterium cynthia var. cynthia
356. Closterium cynthia var. cynthia
357. Closterium gracile var. gracile
358. Closterium gracile var. gracile
PLATE XX
359. Closterium ehrenbergii var.
podolicum
360. Closterium ehrenbergii var.
podolicum
361. Closterium subfusiforme
362. Closterium subfusiforme
363. Closterium calosporum var.
maius
364. Closterium calosporum var.
maius
365. Closterium pseudocynthia sp.
nov.
366. Closterium pseudocynthia sp.
nov.
PLATE XXI
367. Closterium arcuarium var.
arcuarium
368. Closterium arcuarium var.
arcuarium
369. Closterium arcuarium var.
arcuarium
370. Closterium setaceum var.
setaceum
371. Closterium setaceum var.
setaceum
372. Closterium venus
373. Closterium venus
374. Closterium venus var. venus f.
minor
375. Closterium venus var. venus f.
minor
PLATE XXII
376. Closterium parvulum var. maius
377. Closterium parvulum var. maius
378. Closterium rostratum var. sikkimicum var. nov.
379. Closterium rostratum var. sikkimicum var. nov.
380. Closterium sikkimicum sp. nov.
381. Closterium sikkimicum sp. nov.
382. Closterium pseudoincurvum sp. nov.
383. Closterium pseudoincurvum sp. nov.
PLATE XXIII
384. Closterium rostratum var.
rostratum
385. Closterium rostratum var.
rostratum
386. Closterium rostratum var.
rostratum
387. Closterium striolatum var.
subdirectum
388. Closterium gracile var. tenue
389. Closterium gracile var. tenue
390. Closterium gracile var. tenue
391. Closterium gracile var. tenue
392. Closterium gracile var. tenue
393. Closterium eboracense forma
394. Closterium incurvum forma 2
395. Closterium incurvum forma 2
PLATE XXIV
396. Pleurotaenium ehrenbergii var.
ehrenbergii f. rectum
397. Pleurotaenium ehrenbergii var.
ehrenbergii
398. Pleurotaenium ehrenbergii var.
ehrenbergii
399. Pleurotaenium subcoronulatum
var. subcoronulatum f. elongatum
400. Pleurotaenium ehrenbergii var.
crenulatum
401. Pleurotaenium ehrenbergii var.
crenulatum
402. Pleurotaenium truncatum var.
crassum f. crassum
403. Pleurotaenium truncatum var.
crassum f. crassum
404. Pleurotaenium trabecula var.
trabecula
405. Pleurotaenium repandum var.
repandum
406. Pleurotaenium repandum var.
repandum
PLATE XXV
407. Pleurotaenium trabecula var.
elongatum
408. Pleurotaenium eugeneum
409. Pleurotaenium trabecula var.
trabecula
410. Pleurotaenium trabecula var.
trabecula
411. Pleurotaenium ehrenbergii var.
elongatum
412. Pleurotaenium ehrenbergii var.
elongatum
413. Pleurotaenium trabecula var.
hutchinsonii
414. Pleurotaenium trochiscum
415. Pleurotaenium trochiscum
416. Pleurotaenium nodosum var.
nodosum
417. Pleurotaenium nodosum var.
nodosum
418. Pleurotaenium trabecula var.
crassum
PLATE XXVI
419. Triploceras gracile var. gracile
420. Triploceras gracile var. gracile
421. Penium exiguum var.
glaberrimum
422. Penium exiguum var.
glaberrimum
423. Penium margaritaceum var.
margaritaceum
424. Penium margaritaceum var.
margaritaceum
425. Penium margaritaceum var.
irregularius
426. Penium margaritaceum var.
punctatum
427. Penium margaritaceum var.
punctatum
428. Penium phymatosporum
429. Triplastrum abbreviatum
430. Triplastrum abbreviatum
431. Teilingia granulata
432. Teilingia granulata
433. Teilingia excavata
434. Teilingia excavata
435. Spondylosium nitens var.
triangulare
436. Spondylosium nitens var.
triangulare
437. Spondylosium planum var.
planum
438. Hyalotheca dissiliens var. hians
439. Hyalotheca dissiliens var. hians
PLATE XXVII
440. Hyalotheca dissiliens var.
dissiliens
441. Hyalotheca dissiliens var.
dissiliens
442. Hyalotheca dissiliens var.
dissiliens
443. Hyalotheca dissiliens var.
dissiliens
444. Hyalotheca mucosa
445. Hyalotheca mucosa
446. Desmidium aptogonum var.
aptogonum
447. Desmidium aptogonum var.
aptogonum
448. Desmidium baileyi var. baileyi f.
minus
449. Desmidium baileyi var. baileyi f.
minus
450. Desmidium baileyi var.
tetragonum
451. Desmidium baileyi var.
tetragonum
452. Haplotaenium minutum var.
gracile
453. Genicularia elegans
454. Genicularia elegans
455. Gonatozygon monotaenium var.
monotaenium f. minutum
456. Gonatozygon monotaenium var.
monotaenium f. minutum
457. Gonatozygon aculeatum
458. Gonatozygon monotaenium var.
monotaenium f. punctatum
459. Gonatozygon monotaenium var.
monotaenium f. punctatum
460. Gonatozygon kinahani
461. Gonatozygon kinahani
PLATE XXVIII
462. Euastrum oblongum
463. Euastrum humerosum
464. Euastrum platycerum var.
eximium f. clausum
465. Euastrum platycerum var.
eximium f. clausum
466. Euastrum spinulosum var.
spinulosum
467. Euastrum spinulosum var.
spinulosum
468. Euastrum spinulosum var. lindae
469. Euastrum spinulosum var. lindae
470. Euastrum subhypochondrum
471. Euastrum subhypochondrum
472. Euastrum ansatum var.
dideltiforme
473. Euastrum obesum var.
subangulare
474. Euastrum obesum var.
subangulare
475. Euastrum ansatum var. ansatum
476. Euastrum ampullaceum var.
incavatum
477. Euastrum ampullaceum var.
incavatum
478. Euastrum bidentatum var.
oculatum
479. Euastrum ciastonii var. ciastonii
480. Euastrum ciastonii var. ciastonii
481. Euastrum turnerii var. turnerii
482. Euastrum turnerii var. turnerii
483. Euastrum denticulatum var.
quadrifarium
484. Euastrum denticulatum var.
quadrifarium
485. Euastrum diplostauron
486. Euastrum diplostauron
487. Euastrum pseudocorralloides
488. Euastrum denticulatum var.
denticulatum f. glabrum
489. Euastrum denticulatum var.
denticulatum f. glabrum
490. Euastrum lütkemülleri var.
lütkemülleri
491. Euastrum lütkemülleri var.
lütkemülleri
492. Xanthidium acanthophorum
493. Xanthidium acanthophorum
PLATE XXIX
494. Xanthidium antilopaeum
495. Xanthidium antilopaeum
496. Xanthidium antilopaeum var.
antilopaeum f. javonicum
497. Xanthidium antilopaeum var.
antilopaeum f. javonicum
498. Xanthidium antilopaeum var.
antilopaeum f. javonicum
499. Micrasterias foliacea var.
foliacea
500. Micrasterias foliacea var.
foliacea
501. Micrasterias mahabuleshwarensis
502. Micrasterias mahabuleshwarensis
503. Micrasterias ceratofera
504. Micrasterias ceratofera
505. Micrasterias alata
PLATE XXX
506. Micrasterias alata
507. Micrasterias alata forma
508. Micrasterias alata forma
509. Micrasterias radians
510. Micrasterias radians
511. Micrasterias tropica
512. Micrasterias tropica
513. Micrasterias foliacea var.
foliacea
514. Micrasterias foliacea var.
foliacea
515. Micrasterias pinnatifida var.
pinnatifida
516. Micrasterias pinnatifida var.
pinnatifida
517. Micrasterias zeylanica
518. Micrasterias zeylanica
519. Onychonema laeve var.
micracanthum
520. Onychonema laeve var.
micracanthum
521. Onychonema laeve var. latum
522. Onychonema laeve var. latum