The taxonomy and distribution of the members of Laurencia complex (Rhodomelaceae; Ceramiales) at the Aegean Sea coasts of Turkey

In this thesis, the red algae Laurencia complex has been investigated and determined in terms of morphological, anatomical features and phylogenetic relationships. Even though Laurencia complex is an important group for biodiversity and richness of species in Mediterranean ecosystem, comprehensive studies and molecular assays of Laurencia complex has not been studied in the Aegean Sea. In this context, Laurencia complex taxon have been sampled from approximately 500 km long coastline (Çanakkale, Pelitköy, Ayvalık, Çandarlı, Foça, Seferihisar, Özdere and Didim). Samples collected at 0.5-10 m depth from coast to deeper part with using mask-snorkel and also scuba tools in the Aegean Sea in June 2013 and October 2014. For morphological and anatomical observations of collected samples, we used sealing-jar within 2-4% formaldehyde-seawater solution to take samples coastline to laboratory. Samples that will use for molecular analysis taken with test tubes and preserved dried ice. Finally all samples that brought to laboratory were examinated elaborately by their morphological, anatomical and molecular properties and devoted to categories of taxonomic classification. As a result, totally 15 taxon have been identified which includes; 7 Laurencia, 4 Osmundea, 3 Palisada and 1 Chondrophycus taxa. With this study, Laurencia chondrioides Børgesen, L. dendroidea J.Agardh, L. intricata J.V.Lamouroux, Osmundea maggsiana Serio, Cormaci & G. Furnari and O. verlaquei G. Furnari algaes are found for the first time inin along the coasts of Turkey. Conclusion of molecular analysis, revision of Laurencia complex taxa have been achieved and deficiency of the literature in Mediterranean ecosystem for this subject were fulfilled. In conclusion, contribution to determination of species richness in Mediterranean and world algae flora have been aimed.