The order Sphaeropleales comprises a diverse and ecologically significant group of green algae within the class Chlorophyceae. Members of the Sphaeropleales display a remarkable variety of morphologies, ranging from unicellular to colonial and filamentous forms. This volume provides a comprehensive overview of 22 families with 74 genera, including detailed descriptions of families, genera, and species, along with identification keys and illustrations. It covers both European and non-European species. The classification presented in this volume is based on a combination of morphological, phylogenetic, and ultrastructural characteristics, which have been carefully considered in the identification process.
With a strong focus on taxonomy, ecology, and distinguishing features, this book serves as an essential reference for researchers, students, and enthusiasts seeking to identify and study these algae.
The Authors
Christina Bock – Postdoctoral Fellow at the University Duisburg-Essen, Germany
Rodan Geriš– Hydrobiologist at the water management laboratory of the Morava River Board, s. e., Brno, Czech Republic
Lothar Krienitz - Head (retired) of the laboratory of phycology and algal strain collection at the Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Stechlin, Germany
Pavel Škaloud – Head of the Phycology Research Group and the CAUP Culture Collection of Algae, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic