An evaluation of characters obtained from life history studies for distinguishing New Zealand Porphyra species

Since 1992, as part of a study to circumscribe the genus Porphyra in New Ze aland, an extensive culture programme has been developed at the Museum of N ew Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. This collection currently houses more than 80 0 cultures and 150 strains. We currently recognise at least 20 species in N ew Zealand, most of which are undescribed. Close observation of reproductio n and the development of conchocelis-phase filaments grown in the laborator y, under controlled conditions of temperature, irradiance and photoperiod, has enabled the recognition of characters that can assist in species separa tion. The comparative taxonomic value of a range of such characters is disc ussed, including reporting a novel reproductive mode.