First Report of Halopithys incurva (Rhodomelaceae, Rhodophyta) from the Marchica Lagoon of Nador (North-Est Morocco, Mediterranean)

Abstract

The Nador-Marchica lagoon is located on the northeastern Moroccan coast between the Cap of the Three Fourches and the Cape of Water. It is a site of biological and ecological interest (SIBE) and is classified as a Ramsar site. It is part of the largest coastal wetland complex in the Moroccan Mediterranean with an estimated surface area of 115 km2. The species Halopithys incurva (Hudson) Batters (Rhodomelaceae) was found and reported for the first time in the Marchica Lagoon Northeast Mediterranean-Morocco region (February 2021). It was collected from the centre of the lagoon and was grown with other seaweeds (Gracilaria dura and Alsidium corallinum) (Rhodophyta). The morphology, habitat, and water quality are presented and discussed in the present study. An analysis of the description, morphology and images of the macroscopic and microscopic characteristics of this seaweed is provided. This new seaweed indicates that the biodiversity is probably richer than generally thought in this lagoon.