First observation of Spicaticribra from Africa, with a comment on nomenclatural and taxonomic status

Abstract

Since being described in 2008, Spicaticribra has been reported globally. Here, the genus is reported in collections from Africa for the first time. Its habitat and morphology are very similar from locality to locality. As with most other reports, the material collected was obtained from a reservoir. We compare rotational symmetry in the marginal strutted process among specimens reported in the literature to demonstrate their morphological similarity. Despite the habitat specificity and narrow morphological expression, the nomenclatural history of the taxon is complicated. That history is briefly explained and Thalassiosira inlandica is transferred to Spicaticribra.

Keywords:

• Spicaticribra
• Cyclotella meneghiniana
• reservoir
• African diatoms
• diatom biogeography

Acknowledgements

We also extend thanks to Dr O.A. Kunrunmi, Ms O. Adeniyi-Martins, and Mr Adeniyi Tiwalade for their help in obtaining collections and in processing materials used in this study. We are grateful to the management of OORBDA for allowing access to the dam, and to Mr Adegboye O. Richard and Mr Salako Olasunkanmi of OORBDA for their assistance in manning the boat. We are also thankful for the encouragement and support provided by Ms J. Julius and Mr A.M. Adesalu.

ORCID

Taofikat Abosede Adesalu http://orcid.org/0000-0003-3064-1645

Matthew L. Julius http://orcid.org/0000-0003-1693-4644

Additional information

Funding

Funds provided by a grant from University of Lagos: [grant number CRC No.M2015/01] to Adesalu, T.A. supported this research.