Pinnularia macilenta is wider than all varieties of P. subgibba.
Pinnularia subgibba var. undulata has a very similar valve outline and larger specimens are difficult to distinguish.
Pinnularia gibba has more capitate apices.
Pinnularia kittelii has wider valves and the central area is indistinct.
Pinnularia tabellaria is less broad, with a higher stria density and more capitate apices.
BioData Reference
Krammer 2000 Pl 68 Fig 1-8 Pl 69 Fig 1-5
BioData Reference
Krammer 2000 Pl 64 Fig 1-3 9