A numerical taxonomic study of the British Phaeophyta

Abstract

The principles and aims of numerical taxonomy were clearly stated by Sokal & Sneath (1963) and their procedures have since been adopted by many botanists working with numerous different groups of plants. Marine algal taxonomists, however, seem largely to have ignored these developments although Whitton (1969) has recommended that numerical techniques should be employed to help solve outstanding problems in the taxonomy of the Cyanophyta.