Nitella flexilis (Linnaeus) C.Agardh 1824

Publication Details
Nitella flexilis (Linnaeus) C.Agardh 1824: 124

Published in: Agardh, C.A. (1824). Systema algarum. pp. [i]-xxxvii, [1]-312. Lundae [Lund]: Literis Berlingianis [Berling].

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Publication date: probably September 1824

Type Species
The type species (lectotype) of the genus Nitella is Nitella opaca (C.Agardh ex Bruzelius) C.Agardh.

Status of Name
This name is of an entity that is currently accepted taxonomically.

Basionym
Chara flexilis Linnaeus

General Environment
This is a freshwater species.

Description
Nitella flexilis differ from Nitella opaca by being monoecious. It is not possible to separate the two species in sterile condition.

Habitat
Nitella flexilis is found in many types of habitats; Lobelia lakes, Potamogeton-lakes, high mountain lakes, small ponds, ditches, rivers and also slightly brackish water, but it seems to prefer soft oligotrophic waters. N. flexilis is also found in cold areas. Kashimura (1969) found that the species developed best at low temperatures, with the best growth of the gametangia at 5-10oC. The species has fertile plants from May to September and ripe, black oospores from July onwards. N. flexilis var. fryeri is markedly protandrous. It has been found in Norway. In some lakes, probably with unfavourable conditions (temperature) one can find only sterile specimens which must be named Nitella opaca vel flexilis.

Similar Species
Nitella flexilis differ from Nitella opaca by being monoecious. It is not possible to separate the two species in sterile condition.

Created: 11 April 2002 by M.D. Guiry.

Last updated: 09 August 2022

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Linking to this page: https://www.algaebase.org/search/species/detail/?species_id=27202

Citing AlgaeBase
Cite this record as:
M.D. Guiry in Guiry, M.D. & Guiry, G.M. 09 August 2022. AlgaeBase. World-wide electronic publication, National University of Ireland, Galway. https://www.algaebase.org; searched on 18 April 2024

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