Draparnaldia is a widespread genus of charismatic freshwater green algae. The genus contains many endemic or restricted-distribution species.
In 2004, algologists conducting research in Great Smoky Mountains National Park as part of the ATBI discovered a distinctive population of Draparnaldia in Cades Cove. It was distinctly different than the other three taxa reported from the park in this genus. It was described as D. appalachiana in 2007 by Johansen and Lowe.
ATBI algae research has resulted in over 500 species being added to park lists, and nearly 80 new to science. The total known species of algae is now just over 1,000.
Photo Credit: Dr. Rex Lowe
