Discovery of a new green alga species (Jaagichlorella terrestris sp. nov.) isolated from soils in Cat Tien National park

Within the framework of collaborative research task approved in 2024 by the the Joint Vietnam-Russia Tropical Science and Technology Research Center (VRTC) (Project Code: E-1.2), a team of Vietnamese and Russian scientists has discovered and described a new green alga species named Jaagichlorella terrestris. This represents the first record of the genus Jaagichlorella in Vietnam.

Recently, the research findings of the author group from the Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, the Institute of Biology Komi Science Center, the Karadag Scientific Station, the Komarov Botanical Institute (Russian Academy of Sciences), and the Southern Branch (VRTC) were officially published in the prestigious international taxonomic journal Phytotaxa (Vol. 737, January 2026).

The algal samples were isolated from soil biofilms within the tropical forest ecosystems of Cat Tien National Park. To accurately identify this new species, the research team employed a polyphasic approach, integrating detailed morphological observations (via light and electron microscopy) with phylogenetic analysis based on molecular genetic data (ITS2 rDNA gene sequences).

The new species is named Jaagichlorella terrestris Martynenko, Novakovskaya, Podunay & E.S. Gusev. Research shows that this species possesses distinctive morphological characteristics such as small, spherical unicellular cells (ranging from 4.4-8.3 µm in diameter), with a cup-shaped chloroplast and a distinct pyrenoid clearly visible under the microscope. Reproduction occurs through the formation of 2-8 unequal autospores. Genetically, the secondary structure analysis of the ITS2 region revealed the presence of Compensatory Base Changes (CBCs) and hemi-CBCs, confirming its status as a distinct taxon that is closely related to but clearly distinguished from J. sphaerica.

Morphological characteristics of Jaagichlorella terrestris under light microscopy.

The discovery and publication of Jaagichlorella terrestris not only add a new taxon to the checklist of soil microalgae in Vietnam but also provide valuable scientific data on the biological and genetic characteristics of the class Trebouxiophyceae in tropical regions. This result is a testament to the close and effective collaboration between scientists from the Russian Federation and Vietnam. The study further affirms the position of the Joint Vietnam-Russia Tropical Science and Technology Research Center in fundamental research and biodiversity conservation in Vietnam.

Reference: Martynenko, N.A., et al. (2026). Phytotaxa 737 (4): 243-253. DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.737.4.5

Source: Nguyen Thi Van (Southern Branch - VRTC)