Identify that alga:
Web-based key to genera - 5
Algal Search Sitemap and quick links |
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unbranched cyanobacteria (search5) |
branched cyanobacteria (search6) |
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attached, flat plate (search13) |
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Colonies and coenobia : Cyanobacteria (search21) |
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Unicells (under development) |
non-flagellate cells without case (under development) |
in silica case = diatoms (under development) |
flagellate cells (under development) |
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no chloroplast: |
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Unbranched filaments:
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No Chloroplast ( = unbranched cyanobacteria) | ||||
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Heterocysts are associated with nitrogen fixation in Cyanobacteria, which may also produce Akinetes, or resting spores- the sausage-shaped cells seen below (Anabaena) | ||||
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Pseudanabaena | ||||
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Aphanizomenon |
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(In sheathed genera, the string of cells is referred to as the trichome, while filament refers to the trichome plus the sheath) | ||||
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Phormidium: often forms dense mats of filaments, blue-green or grey in colour. (May occasionally show motility) |
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Chamaesiphon: epiphytic | ||||
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Lyngbya: Trichomes may break up into hormogonia (short lengths comprising a number of cells eg. upwards of 10 or so), which may be confused with Oscillatoria. These may be released from the sheath and go on to develop into a new filament. (May occasionally show motility) |
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Hydrocoleum Schizothrix |
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Gloeotrichia: may form spherical planktonic colonies |
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Calothrix: sheath is firm, covering the thicker, basal part of the trichome, but does not usually cover the heterocyst |
John Kinross