Abstract
Clonal isolates of the brown algaEctocarpus siliculosus (Ectocarpales) originating from Naples (Mediterranean Sea) and southern Chile were compared in laboratory culture studies. The two isolates showed distinctly different morphological characters, but very similar details of life history and sexual reproduction. Gametes are sexually compatible; hybrid zygotes are formed and sporophytes develop, which are fertile on the basis of mitotic spores. However, unilocular sporangia were abortive, indicating segregational sterility caused by chromosomal mismatch during meiosis. Although the biological species concept in a strict sense does not apply, and appreciable morphological variability exists in this cosmopolitan taxon, local populations are considered as representatives of the same species.
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Dedicated to Dr. Dr. h. c. Peter Kornmann on the occasion of his eightieth birthday.
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Müller, D.G. Studies on sexual compatibility betweenEctocarpus siliculosus (Phaeophyceae) from Chile and the Mediterranean Sea. Helgolander Meeresunters 42, 469–476 (1988). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02365621
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02365621