Scientists at the University of Koblenz discover new Hunsrück red algae

The newly discovered Hunsrück red algae under the magnifying glass. Image: University of Koblenz / Prof Dr Eberhard Fischer

As part of mapping work in the streams of the Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park, scientists from the University of Koblenz and other colleagues have discovered a conspicuous red algae. This was previously known as Vosges frog algae. However, morphological comparisons with herbarium material and intensive DNA analyses have shown that it is not only a new species, but even a new genus.

The true Vosges frog algae is only found in western France and north-east Spain. The newly discovered species from the Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park is otherwise only found in the Northern Vosges, the Palatinate and the High Fens. It grows in clean and clear spring areas of nutrient-poor streams and is therefore an important bioindicator for very good water quality.

The discovery of a new genus and a new species in Central Europe is exceptional. It emphasises the particular importance of this area for nature conservation.

In honour of the former Rhineland-Palatinate Minister for the Environment, Agriculture, Food, Viticulture and Forestry Ulrike Höfken, the red algaHoefkenia hunsrueckensis named. Höfken had been instrumental in the establishment of the national park.

To the publication of the new discovery

Fischer, E., Killmann, D., Gerlach, J., Schütte, C., Leh, B., Müller, K. & Quandt, D. (2024):Hoefkenia hunsrueckensis, a New Genus and Species from Europe, and the Identity ofVirescentia vogesiaca (F.W.Schultz ex Skuja) Necchi, D.C.Agostinho & M.L.Vis (Batrachospermales, Rhodophyta). Diversity 16, 473.https://doi.org/10.3390/d16080473

Date of publication10/10/2024