Identification key for Holocene Lacustrine Arcellacean (Thecamoebian) taxa

Abstract

Arcellaceans (thecamoebians), predominantly freshwater protozoans, have been studied for over a century. However, in the last ten years their usefulness as paleoenvironmental indicators has become better understood because researchers have recognized that certain morphotypes (strains) prefer distinct microenvironments. Unfortunately, the monoclonal nature and simle morphorphology of the group has led to considerable taxonomic confusion, threatening their utility in paleolimnological research. This key was created to help new researchers studying the group, and to standardize the taxonomy.