Inter- and intra-specific diversity of Pseudo-nitzschia (Bacillariophyceae) in the northeastern Mediterranean

A total of 92 cultured Pseudo-nitzschia strains, established between March 2007 and April 2010 from Greek coastal waters, were identified by using morphological and molecular (ITS2 region) characters. Twelve species were identified, among which P. brasiliana, P. subpacifica and P. hasleana were detected for the first time near Greek and East Mediterranean coasts. One P. delicatissima-like morphotype and another strain that closely resembled P. dolorosa were also found. Morphology and ITS2 phylogeny indicated that the level of diversity within the genus is higher than previously estimated (e. g. among P. delicatissima-like diatoms). Additionally, the ITS2 phylogeny revealed genetic variation within species, indicative of geographical differentiation (in P. brasiliana, P. fraudulenta, P. arenysensis, P. delicatissima and P. galaxiae). The majority of the cultured strains were also tested for domoic acid (DA) production. Strains of only three species, P. pseudodelicatissima, P. galaxiae and P. pungens var. pungens, were found capable of producing DA.