Lithothamnion

Lithothamnion
Temporal range: Cretaceous–Recent
L. glaciale showing conceptacles. Millimetre scale
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Supergroup: Archaeplastida
Division: Rhodophyta
Class: Florideophyceae
Order: Corallinales
Family: Hapalidiaceae
Genus: Lithothamnion
Heydrich, 1897

Lithothamnion is a genus of thalloid red alga comprising 103 species. Its members are known by a number of common names, such as griuán, maërl, punalevä-suku, stenhinna, and maerl[what language is this?].[citation needed] The monomerous, crustose thalli are composed of a single system of filaments which grow close to the underlying surface. Lithothamnion reproduces by means of multiporate conceptacles.

Species

The valid species currently considered to belong to this genus are:

Uses

Calcium supplements made from Lithothamnium calcareum

The species Lithothamnium calcareum is, besides Tricalcium phosphate, often used as food fortification in plant-based milk substitutes to achieve a similar calcium content as a cow milk which is around 120 mg/100 ml. However, in April 2021 the European Court of Justice forbade its use in organic food products such as drinks.[needs update?]

References

  • Guiry, M.D.; Guiry, G.M. (2008). "Lithothamnion". AlgaeBase. World-wide electronic publication, National University of Ireland, Galway. Archived from the original on 7 October 2012. Retrieved 18 April 2009.