An evaluation of the algal flora of the Salinas de Huacho on the coast of Peru between 1984 and 1990 was carried out by collection of algal mats and natural waters from a variety of habitats and by microscopic examination. D. salina occurred in lagoons and pools with a salinity range of 165\% to 350\% and formed planktonic and benthic communities. The benthic palmelloid stage of D. salina was found at higher salinities. Aplanospore formation was also observed. Associated halophilic species included D. viridis, Oscillatoria tenuis and Pleurocapsa entophysaloides. D. salina was also found at two other salinas on the central Peruvian coast (Chilca and Otuma). © 1993 Kluwer Academic Publishers.