ALGAL STUDIES IN BOLIVIA: A COMPILATION AND PRELIMINARY ANALYSIS OF EXISTING PHYCOLOGICAL LITERATURE

Abstract

A compilation of phycological literature published on Bolivian algae is presented together with an analysis of strengths, weaknesses, and needs in this field of investigation. An analysis of the nationality of authors, type, content, and geographic focus of the references shows that literature is largely produced by foreign scientist, concentrated on just a few areas of the country, or are biased toward particular algal groups, leaving ample room for more exploration. The Altiplano (high mountain plateau) and Amazon concentrate most of the publications, the phytoplankton and algae found in sediment cores, being the communities that have received more attention from scientists. Taxonomic references focus more on phytoplankton and tychoplankton communities and are largely restricted to the mere presentation of taxa lists, but using old and geographically unsuitable floras as the source for taxa names. The present work does not incorporate an account of the number and identity of taxa at the genus, species or infraspecific levels. That work will be presented later after appropriate taxonomic review. The purpose of this compilation is to provide an overview for what is known about Bolivian algae up to this point and to provide the bases for further investigations in this field, including a catalog of Bolivian algae.