Identification of the bloom-forming Peridinium from Lake Kinneret (Israel) as P. gatunense (Dinophyceae)

Abstract

Plate structure analysis of the bloom-forming Peridinium of Lake Kinneret (previously identified as P. cinctum fa. westii) established its identity as P. gatunense. Peridinium cinctum was not observed. Material from different years and periods of the bloom, as well as specimens from cultures and P. gatunense from Lago Cristalino (Brazil), were studied using light and scanning electron microscopy. Peridinium gatunense from Lake Kinneret showed slight differences of the plate pattern as compared with specimens from other localities.