Clustered Stonewort
Tolypella glomerata
Photo: iNaturalist: (c) Walter Wimmer, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Walter Wimmer
Overview
Clustered Stonewort (Tolypella glomerata) is a distinctive charophyte algae characterized by its clustered, spherical reproductive structures and delicate branching pattern. This aquatic macroalga forms dense underwater meadows in shallow freshwater environments, playing a crucial role in stabilizing sediments and providing habitat structure for invertebrates and fish spawning areas.
Clustered Stonewort faces significant threats from habitat degradation and loss of suitable freshwater environments. Water pollution, eutrophication, and human disturbance of aquatic ecosystems have contributed to population declines across its range, making this charophyte algae vulnerable to extinction.
Habitat
Clustered Stonewort inhabits shallow freshwater environments including ponds, lakes, slow-moving streams, and temporary pools with calcareous or brackish waters. This charophyte algae typically grows in clear, nutrient-poor waters with muddy or sandy substrates at depths ranging from a few centimeters to several meters.
Other threatened species in Characeae
Frequently asked questions
Why is Clustered Stonewort classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Clustered Stonewort live?
What are the main threats to Clustered Stonewort?
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