A redescription of Lithophyllum crouanii (Rhodophyta, Corallinales) in the British Isles with an assessment of its relationship to L. orbiculatum

Abstract

A redescription is given of Lithophyllum crouanii Foslie and of its structure, taxonomy and ecology in the British Isles. Due to a misidentification by Foslie, which was perpetuated by Rosenvinge, Suneson and Adey among others, the species has become known as L. orbiculatum (Foslie) Foslie. The origins of the nomenclatural and taxonomic confusion that has arisen as a result of Foslie's misidentification are fully documented and the relationship between L. crouanii and L. orbiculatum is discussed.