Coolia monotis (Dinophyceae): A toxic epiphytic microalgal species found in New Zealand (Note)

Abstract

Coolia monotis Meunier (Dinophyceae) was isolated from drift seaweed collected from Ninety Mile Beach, Northland, New Zealand. It is a new record for New Zealand waters. The microalga was identified by scanning electron microscopy and cultured in a seawater-based medium. Cultures grew preferentially at 25°C (subtropical temperatures), rather than at 20°C (temperate), and at salinities >28. Coolia monotis proved to be toxic to larvae of Artemia salina and Haliotis virginea.