Apophlaea | |
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Apophlaea sinclairii by Peter de Lange | |
Scientific classification | |
(unranked): | Archaeplastida |
Division: | Rhodophyta |
Class: | Florideophyceae |
Order: | Hildenbrandiales |
Family: | Hildenbrandiaceae |
Genus: | Apophlaea J.D.Hooker & Harvey, 1845 |
Species | |
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Apophlaea is a genus of thalloid algae that is endemic to New Zealand.[1] This genus has two species, both from the high intertidal zone on New Zealand's coasts.[2][3] Specimens can reach around 15 cm in size. The thalli take a crustose form, but also contain upright, branching frond-like protrusions that reach 5–8 cm in height.[4][5] Secondary pit connections and secondary pit connectionsare present in the organisms. Apophlaea reproduces by means of conceptacles; it produces tetraspores.
It is notable for its symbiotic relationship with certain fungi.[6] Despite its unusual morphology, molecular systematics, along with its zoned tetrasporangia borne in conceptacles with a single opening, place it within the Hildenbrandiales.[7]
The algae are resistant to both U-V radiation and desiccation, allowing them to thrive in intertidal settings.[8] Indeed, they can resume almost full photosynthesis just minutes after losing 95% of their tissue water.[9]