Molecular and morphological characterization of diatoms related to dense mucilage formation in Turkish coastal waters

OpenAlex İngilizce

Cryptic diatom species, despite their subtle morphological traits, play a pivotal role in harmful algal blooms (HABs) and mucilage formation, making their identification a critical challenge. This study combines molecular and morphological approaches to characterize diatom species associated with the extensive mucilage observed in Turkish coastal waters between 2020 and 2021. Among the findings, Minutocellus polymorphus (Hargraves & Guillard) Hasle, Stosch & Syvertsen and Fistulifera saprophila (Lange-Bertalot & Bonik) Lange-Bertalot whose molecular phylogenetic analysis was carried out by sequencing small subunit ribosomal DNA ( SSU rDNA ) and internal transcribed spacer ( ITS ), are reported for the first time in Turkish waters, expanding our understanding of local biodiversity. Additionally, Pseudo-nitzschia pungens (Grunow ex Cleve) G.R.Hasle was molecularly characterized for the first time in the Sea of Marmara using large subunit ribosomal DNA ( LSU rDNA ) and ITS sequences. These results underscore the indispensable role of molecular techniques in uncovering the hidden diversity of diatoms and their potential contribution to HABs and mucilage events. By linking these findings to the ongoing mucilage phenomenon, this study offers significant insights into the ecological dynamics of the Sea of Marmara and highlights the need for integrative approaches in future research.