Mayamaea vietnamica sp. Nov.: A new, terrestrial diatom (bacillariophyceae) species from Vietnam

Abstract

A new diatom species, Mayamaea vietnamica sp. nov., is described from Cát Tiên National Park in Vietnam. This species was discovered and described from soil samples. Algae from soil ecosystems in Vietnam are almost unknown. The new species is described on the basis of an integrated approach with molecular and morphological data, and comparison with similar species. In terms of molecular data, 18S rDNA (including V4 domain), and partial rbcL plastid genes show M. vietnamica sp. nov. is most closely related to M. terrestris N. Abarca and R. Jahn, and together they form a mono-phyletic group relative to other members of the genus. M. vietnamica sp. nov. differs from other species in the genus by the number of striae and areolae in 10 µm, number of areolae per stria, as well as shape and presence or absence of axial and central areas.