Scientists have found a genetically unique algae settlement

University of Exeter scientists have studied the population genetics of Phymatolithon calcareum, or coral red species.

seaweedThey form maerl beds in shallow coastal seas from Portugal to Norway: the beds are needed to provide habitat and  shelter for thousands of fish and invertebrates. These algae also play an important role in carbon storage.

The results of the work show that there are genetic differences depending on the location of the algae. However, the herring at the mouth of the Fal River is not similar to all the others at the genetic level. 

Now a genetically unique settlement is locatedin great danger due to pollution of the marine environment and dredging operations that are periodically carried out to maintain navigable access to the port.

Due to large genetic differences, algae are almost unable to disperse; this limits the connection between individual populations. 

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