Morphology and taxonomic status of Dasya rigescens (Rhodophyta, Dasyaceae)

Morphological evidence supports the specific status of the endemic Mediterranean red algal taxon Dasya rigescens. Compared to D. ocellata, which is a more widely distributed and less deep species, D. rigescens shows clear morphological differences in cortication cells, pseudolaterals, spermatangial branches, cystocarps and stichidia location. The nomenclature and lectotypification of D. rigescens are discussed, and previous data are reviewed and clarified.