U.S.-New Zealand Cooperative Research: Biodiversity and Biogeography of Diatoms in New Zealand

Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green OH

Investigators

Abstract

9908522 Lowe This award supports collaboration between Rex Lowe, Bowling Green University, and Barry Biggs, National Institute for Water and Atmospheric Research, Christchurch, New Zealand, on the biodiversity and biogeography of diatoms in New Zealand. The geographic isolation of New Zealand led to a relatively well documented unique flora and fauna. The flora of diatoms that dominate benthic algal communities of most streams in New Zealand, however, is poorly known. The proposed research will survey the taxonomy and distribution in selected streams of Westland and Southwestland on New Zealand's South Island. This research will not only add significantly to the knowledge base on global biodiversity by will also provide a firm taxonomic base for future research into the structure and function of southern hemisphere streams.