Four new non-marine diatom taxa from the subantarctic and antarctic regions

Abstract

A recent survey of the non-marine diatoms from islands in the Atlantic sector of the Southern Ocean (King George Island, Deception Island, Livingston Island, James Ross Island, Signy Island, South Georgia and Beak Island) resulted in the description of four new diatom species: Chamaepinnularia gerlachei Van de Vijver & Sterken sp. nov., Craticula antarctica Van de Vijver & Sabbe sp. nov., Craticula subpampeana Van de Vijver & Sterken sp. nov. and Diadesmis australis Van de Vijver & Sabbe sp. nov. The morphology of each species is described on the basis of light and electron microscopy. The new species are compared to similar taxa, especially to those present in the Subantarctic and Antarctic Region. Preliminary observations on the ecology and biogeography of each species are provided.