Cocconeis californica var. kerguelensis Heiden (Figure 48)

Literature: (Hustedt 1958, p. 143, figs. 96–99 [as Cocconeis curiosa (Hustedt)]; Riaux-Gobin and Romero 2003, p. 21, figs. 16, 17, pl. 11, figs. 1–11).

Description: Length 14–18 µm, width 9–11 µm, striae 13–15 in 10 µm.

Remarks: In the study area, this species was always found with C. californica var. californica which is the nominate variety. Most of the observed specimens bear very few striae (formed of one areola) on both sides of the axial area near valve poles.

Ecology and distribution: Antarctic marine species, usually found as epiphyte. Rare in Potter Cove.