Algal factsheet: Oedogonium (Oedogoniaceae)

Diagnostic features

Unbranched filamentous chlorophyte with cylindrical cells, some of which have rings or scars near the ends, formed during past cell divisions (also characteristic of Bulbochaete, to which it is closely related). Attached to surfaces by a holdfast, which is commonly surrounded by reddish material, but filaments may be long and this feature may not be collected. Chloroplast netlike, parietal, completely encircling the cell, and containing one or more pyrenoids. Life cycle may be extremely complex, and varies by species. Oogonia large and round, antheridia very short (same width as vegetative cells). Simplest type involves both sexes on the same filament, but they may occur on separate filaments, and dwarf males occur in some species. Reproductive structures only occasionally found in field material.

Typical habitats

Found in lakes, ponds and the margins of slow-flowing streams/rivers

Notes

Blooms have been the subject of pollution complaints

Classification

Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Chlorophyta
Class	Chlorophyceae
Order	Oedogoniales
Family	Oedogoniaceae
Common name	Green algae