Bangiophyceae is a class of
red algae. In some classifications it is merged with the
Florideophyceae
Florideophyceae is a class of red algae. They were once thought to be the only algae to bear pit connections, but these have since been found in the filamentous stage of the Bangiaceae. They were also thought only to exhibit apical growth, but t ...
to form the
Rhodophyceae. The Bangiophyceae, as defined traditionally, are
paraphyletic.
Their
taxonomic identification has been difficult because of a lack of distinct morphological features, and the presumed morphological plasticity of the species. Molecular tools are required to elucidate the relationships within this assemblage.
It is still used by some sources, and defined ''sensu stricto'' (including ''
Bangia
''Bangia'' is an extant genus of division Rhodophyta that grows in marine or freshwater habitats. ''Bangia'' has small thalli with rapid growth and high reproductive output, and exhibits behavior characteristic of r-selected species. The plants ...
'' and ''
Porphyra
''Porphyra'' is a genus of coldwater seaweeds that grow in cold, shallow seawater. More specifically, it belongs to red algae phylum of laver species (from which comes laverbread), comprising approximately 70 species.Brodie, J.A. and Irvine, ...
'' but not the species included in
Florideophyceae
Florideophyceae is a class of red algae. They were once thought to be the only algae to bear pit connections, but these have since been found in the filamentous stage of the Bangiaceae. They were also thought only to exhibit apical growth, but t ...
) is considered a valid clade.
References
{{Taxonbar, from=Q1349723
Red algae classes