Biology:Desmatractum
Desmatractum is a genus of green algae, in the order Chlamydomonadales.[1] It is found in freshwater habitats such as ponds, ditches, and bogs as plankton or metaphyton.[2] The genus is cosmopolitan, but some species are very rare.[1]
Description
Desmatractum is microscopic and consists of single cells. The cells are spherical or ellipsoidal, and are surrounded by a cell envelope that tapers at both ends, making the form overall spindle-shaped. The envelope has 4 to 20 longitudinal ridges, and may be constricted at the equator. The chloroplast is parietally located and contains one or two pyrenoid.[2][1]
Species are distinguished from each other by the overall shape and size of the cells, as well as the degree of longitudinal ribbing of the cell envelopes.[1] Species that appear similar in the light microscope have very different ultrastructures, and this may be a sign that taxonomic revision is necessary.[1]
Reproduction occurs asexually, where the protoplast divides into four zoospores which are then released through a tear in the cell envelope. Zoospores are oval or elongate, with a single chloroplast and eyespot, as well as two identical anterior flagella. Sexual reproduction has not been observed in Desmatractum.[1]
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 Guiry, M.D.; Guiry, G.M. (2008). "Desmatractum". AlgaeBase. World-wide electronic publication, National University of Ireland, Galway. http://www.algaebase.org/browse/taxonomy/?id=44249.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 Shubert, Elliot; Gärtner, Georg (2014). "Chapter 7. Nonmotile Coccoid and Colonial Green Algae". Freshwater Algae of North America: Ecology and Classification (2 ed.). Elsevier Inc.. ISBN 978-0-12-385876-4.
Wikidata ☰ Q5264601 entry
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