The taxonomy and distribution of algae cultured from samples from Granite Harbour: Oscillatoriales and Cyanobacteria

Samples were removed from the complete range of habitats supporting algal growth at Granite Harbour. A total of over 190 samples were examined microscopically and a taxonomic list was compiled. Cultures of several new records of Cyanobacteria found (Genera: Borzia, Komvophoron and Hormoscilla) together with a complete range of other members of Oscillatoriales were attempted as part of a descriptive study. A baseline description of the distribution of taxa throughout the diversity of habitats at Cape Geology/Botany Bay was conducted by surveying the area. Results show that each habitat supports the growth of a specific assemblage of species and environmental factors appear to be selecting for the growth of specific species assemblage from the pool of total available secies. Samples were collected for laboratory experimentation of environmental parameters (water availability, nutrients, total salt concentration, physical nature of the substratum, physical disturbance of the substratum and possibly biotic interactions such as competition).