rbcL gene amplification reveals first record of Porphyra mumfordii (Bangiales, Rhodophyta) in Valparaíso Bay, central Chile

Abstract

The genus Porphyra, commonly found along Chilean coast, is an important commercial algal food known as nori. There are some specimens of Porphyra found at Montemar Marine Protected Area (32°57’S; 71°33’W) in Valparaíso Bay, which taxonomical identity is not clear. This study aimed to identify long-bladed specimens of Porphyra inhabiting the upper, mid and lower intertidal in Valparaíso Bay. To do so, 30 thalli of Porphyra were collected during the winter of 2015 in Montemar. All samples were subjected to rbcL molecular marker amplification. However, only 18 individuals were sequenced successfully. In addition, a morphological description was conducted. The rbcL analysis showed that the longbladed specimens inhabiting Valparaíso Bay correspond to Porphyra mumfordii. Differences in size and color of thalli found on each intertidal level were recorded. This research constitutes the first record of P. mumfordii for central Chile.