Algal factsheet: Trachelomonas (Euglenidae)
Diagnostic features
Euglenoid unicell contained within a rounded or flask-shaped, sometimes spiky lorica (rigid shell, which is often coloured red-brown). Cell wall is composed of a pellicle of proteinaceous strips that are flexible as in Euglena, and may be seen moving within the lorica. A flagellum extends through a collared "bottleneck" in the lorica. Chloroplasts numerous, green, discoidal. A large red eyespot is present outside the chloroplasts. Cellular features may be difficult to see if the lorica is deeply pigmented.Typical habitats
Abundant in nutrient-rich ponds, including sewage ponds.Classification
| Kingdom | Protozoa |
|---|---|
| Phylum | Euglenozoa |
| Class | Euglenoidea |
| Order | Euglenida |
| Family | Euglenidae |
| Common name | Euglenoids |