Gomphosphenia vallei (Bacillariophyta), a new diatom species from a stream in the “Réserve Naturelle Nationale de la Vallée de Chaudefour”, Massif Central (France)

Abstract

A new Gomphosphenia species (Bacillariophyceae) was found during a diatom survey in the “Réserve Naturelle Nationale de la Vallée de Chaudefour” (RNN VC), in the Massif Central (France). Gomphosphenia vallei sp. nov. is described from stone surfaces in Pérouse Stream, Auvergne, France. A detailed description of morphology of G. vallei is presented, based on light and scanning electron microscopy. This new small-sized species is characterized by linear-clavate to elliptical valves. Striae are uniseriate and composed of single slit-like areolae, an axial area linear and narrow and a low number of striae. Gomphosphenia vallei seems to inhabit headwater stream.