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Desmid of the month
June 2006
Cylindrocystis
brebissonii
As
indicated by its name, the saccoderm genus Cylindrocystis is marked by
cylindric cells. It differs from the likewise cylindrically shaped genus Mesotaenium in that the chloroplast is not plate-like but asteroid (provided with radiating
ridges). By far the most common species is Cylindrocystis brebissonii.
The star-like chloroplast configuration is particularly well visible in relatively
short cells. Chloroplasts of more elongate cells are often rather disorderly.
Cylindrocystis
brebissonii is a most common species in acidic, oligotrophic, benthic habitats
(particularly in Sphagnum vegetation) and is relatively often encountered
in conjugating condition.
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Image
© Koos Meesters
Some
four cells of Cylindrocystis brebissonii. Notice its asteroid (star-like)
chloroplast with ribbons that radiate from a central core (incorporating a pyrenoid).
Cell
dimensions (L x B): 30-40 x 20 µm
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