The species that historically was quoted as the most abundant of coral algae that forms rodoliths at the Gulf of California in Mexico, is in reality a compound of five different species. This finding was made by Jazmín Hernández Kantun, marine biologist at the Autonomous University of South Baja California (UABCS), resulting in a change of paradigm in the study of the species known as Lithophyllum margaritae. 
In fact, this Mexican research has reached Europe, where Hernández Kantun is continuing the project at Ireland’s National University with the support of the Mexican National Council of Science and Technology (Conacyt). According to Hernandez Kantun, the objective now is to determine the number of species of coral algae in Europe and Mexico through molecular tests. “Coral algae in Mexico and through out the world are usually identified only by their shape and color. However, is necessary to investigate the species in depth, given that bigger biodiversity exists in this organism than previously thought” said the researcher. The Habitats Directive of the European Union protects only two rodolith forming species: Lithothamnion corallioides and Phymatolithon calcareum; considering them the most abundant and important, giving them relevance as a marine ecosystem and their use as rich, mineral fertilizers. Hernandez Kantun found that at least other two species: L. glaciale and L. tophiforme, should be considered in the protected group as they have similar characteristics. ![xvbnefg1 Algal diversity greater than thought as research finds new species]( "Algal diversity greater than thought as research finds new species")
The environmental value of coral algae lies in the fact that when detached during tides and storms they accumulate in specific areas and form ‘mantles’ of rodolith. These are used by corals, clams and mollusks as ‘foundations’ for their development. Hernández Kantun warned that ocean acidification could remove the mantles of rodoliths from the ecosystem, directly affecting the mollusks, corals and any other organism found in them. The marine biologist insisted that the coral’s biological diversity must be considered. “A lot of research is missing in this field, we haven’t quite understood the diversity of this algae, is like saying that all dogs are alike when each breed has different genetics and response to environmental factors. Is not the same to protect one than five different species!” she highlighted. After four years of studying for her PhD in Ireland and collaborating with researchers from the United Kingdom, Spain, France and Italy, Jazmín Hernández Kantun is waiting for her grade exam to return to Mexico where she plans to found a laboratory to continue with her research and use it for the conservation of this marine organisms.
… More:
The environmental value of coral algae lies in the fact that when detached during tides and storms they accumulate in specific areas and form ‘mantles’ of rodolith. These are used by corals, clams and mollusks as ‘foundations’ for their development. Hernández Kantun warned that ocean acidification could remove the mantles of rodoliths from the ecosystem, directly affecting the mollusks, corals and any other organism found in them. The marine biologist insisted that the coral’s biological diversity must be considered. “A lot of research is missing in this field, we haven’t quite understood the diversity of this algae, is like saying that all dogs are alike when each breed has different genetics and response to environmental factors. Is not the same to protect one than five different species!” she highlighted. After four years of studying for her PhD in Ireland and collaborating with researchers from the United Kingdom, Spain, France and Italy, Jazmín Hernández Kantun is waiting for her grade exam to return to Mexico where she plans to found a laboratory to continue with her research and use it for the conservation of this marine organisms.The post Algal diversity greater than thought as research finds new species appeared first on reefs.com.