WoRMS source details
The desmid genera Staurastrum and Staurodesmus are notorious for their confusing taxonomy and problematic species identification. To a large part this is due to a lack of reliable identification manuals. The present flora, dealing with the European species of these genera, aims to meet this need. As well as general information on the morphology and taxonomy of the genera, identification keys to the species are provided. The discussion of each species includes morphological characteristics, ecology and geographical distribution (also beyond Europe).
As compared to other desmid genera, a large part of the Staurastrum and Staurodesmus species have a euplanktonic way of life. Reliable identification and knowledge of their ecological demands is most important for the assessment of water quality. Many species have a confined geographical distribution, even within Europe. Shifting distribution patterns of those species might be linked to climate change.
Volume 1: Desmids of the Lowlands - Mesotaeniaceae and Desmidiaceae of the European Lowlands
Volume 2: European Flora of the desmid genera Staurastrum and Staurodesmus
Staurastrum bispiniferum Coesel & Meesters, 2013 (original description)
Staurastrum crassimamillatum Coesel & Meesters, 2013 (original description)
Staurastrum keuruense Coesel & Meesters, 2013 (original description)
Staurastrum lenzenwegeri Coesel & Meesters, 2013 (original description)
Staurastrum nygaardii Coesel & Meesters, 2013 (original description)
Staurastrum paradoxoides Coesel & Meesters, 2013 (original description)
Staurastrum pertyanum Coesel & Meesters, 2013 (original description)
Staurastrum punctatuloides Coesel & Meesters, 2013 (original description)
Staurastrum punctulatoides Coesel & Meesters, 2013 (original description)
Staurastrum quadratulum Coesel & Meesters, 2013 (original description)
Staurastrum trapezioides Coesel & Meesters, 2013 (original description)
Staurodesmus cuspidicurvatus Coesel & Meesters, 2013 (original description)