Cylindrospermum voukii and Wollea saccata, new records for algal flora of Iran

Abstract

Cyanobacteria represent a small taxonomic group of photosynthetic prokaryotes which some of them are capable of N₂ fixation and also possess a tremendous potential for producing a wide range of secondary metabolites. It has been suggested that, some of these microorganisms, especially heterocystous cyanobacteria, assist higher plant growth by supplying growth stimulating substances. During a floristic study of algae in the terrestrial habitats of Iran, cyanobacterial taxa presented in natural habitats of a medicinal plant (<em>Tanacetum parthenium</em>), located in Lorestan province (Iran) is isolated and identified. Among identified taxa, two species, <em>Cylindrospermum voukii</em>, and <em>Wollea saccata </em>are reported as new records from <em>Nostocaceae</em> family in Iran. Beside description of the new taxa, general distribution, as well as camera lucida images are included herewith.<br />