Charophytes of Europe

This book covers the whole of Europe within its geographical limits, providing  an overview about the biogeography and recent taxonomic status of Charophyte species. It also offers in-depth information, informed by recent findings, about the ecology, ontogenesis, morphology, palaeontology and systematics of this group of algae, making this the first comprehensive treatment of European Charophytes. In addition, the reader, for the first time, is provided with definitions of terms used in relation to Charophytes, sorting out several previous confusions about terminology. Special attention has been paid to oospores in order to exploit their potential for supporting species delineation as well as analysis of sediment records. A red list, dealing also with threats and habitat conditions, completes the book.

Altogether more than 70 taxon are described in detail, each of the descriptions giving full information about morphology, habitat conditions, and distribution as well as variability; important characters for determination are illustrated by photographs and drawings. Hints for correct determination are given in a separate paragraph, allowing correct species delineation even for critical species.This, together with a set of determination keys, will allow beginners and practitioners to become familiar with the determination of Charophytes. This has often been regarded as notoriously difficult in the past.

Authored by a large group of 70 specialists from all over Europe and Overseas, a commonly agreed taxonomy is provided, with all debates about taxonomic status and nomenclatural problems having been discussed beforehand extensively. The result is that a sound reference for applied aspects of charophyte study has been produced, allowing for reliable cross-country comparisons especially with respect to bioindication purposes, but also serving ground for biogeographical research, biodiversity issues and the emerging field of elucidating the process of territorialisation of land plants.

The authors hope that this book will become the reference work for the coming decades it was designed for.