Epiphytic macroalgae from Boa Viagem Beach, Recife, Pernambuco state, Brazil

Abstract

The aim of this study was to carry out a taxonomic survey of epiphytic seaweeds that occur on reefs of Boa Viagem Beach, located in the metropolitan region of Recife – Pernambuco state, Brazil. The samplings were performed in the dry season (December 2009) and rainy season (April 2010) at intertidal reefs using 625 cm2 squares. Voucher specimens are deposited at the Herbarium of the Instituto de Botânica, São Paulo, Brazil (SP). A total of 48 taxa were recorded of which 20 were Chlorophyta, 27 Rhodophyta and one Heterokontophyta. The most representative orders were Ceramiales and Cladophorales, with 17 and 10 taxa respectively. Nine species are new additions to the flora of Pernambucan coast. Gelidium pusillum (Stackh.) Le Jol. 1863 and Chondracanthus saundersii C. W. Schneid. and C. E. Lane 2005 had the highest number of epiphytic macroalgae. The majority of species was collected in the rainy season and on wave-exposed sites.