ABSTRACT

A critical review of the recent structural work performed on the galactans, which constitute the matrix of most of the Rhodophyceae, is presented. Structural variations appearing in different taxa are analyzed. The main variations which may appear are:

a)      L-Galactose occurring instead of D-galactose or vice versa

b)      Lack of a perfect 1→3, 1→4 alternating structure.

c)      Different substitution patterns marked by the presence or absence of sulfate ester groups, methyl ether groups, pyruvic acid ketals, and different degrees and types of branching.