Variation in Ochlochaete hystrix (Chaetophorales, Chlorophyceae) studied in culture

Six different isolates of Ochlochaete Thwaites ex Harvey have been studied under identical culture conditions. All the isolates show open branching, a character previously ascribed specifically to O. hystrix Thwaites ex Harv. sensu stricto, and all form hairs on rounded cells in the central part of the thallus, a character hitherto attributed only to O. ferox Huber. Consequently, separation of these two entities on the species level is untenable. The plant described by Huber is referred to O. hystrix var. ferox (Huber) var. nov. The type material of Chaetobolus gibbus Rosenvinger is similar to one of the isolates studied and is included in O. hystrix. Quadriflagellate zoospores have been observed in all the isolates, and in one of them also biflagellate swarmers.