European Flora of the desmid genera Staurastrum and Staurodesmus

Description:

Treats the European desmid species of the genera Staurastrum and Staurodesmus with identification keys and information on their morphology, taxonomy, ecology and geographical distribution. These two genera are notorious for their confusing taxonomy and problematic species identification. To a large part this is due to a lack of reliable identification manuals. This book fills this gap in the literature. Identification keys to species. Species accounts include morphological characteristics, ecology and geographical distribution (also beyond Europe).

Many of the Staurastrum and Staurodesmus species have a euplanktonic way of life. Reliable identification and knowledge of their ecological demands is important for the assessment of water quality. Many species have a confined geographical distribution, even within Europe. Shifting distribution patterns of those species might be linked to climate change.