Landcare Research - Manaaki Whenua

Landcare-Research -Manaaki Whenua

Algal factsheet: Fragilaria (Fragilariaceae)


Diagnostic features

Raphes absent. Frustules long and narrow in both valve and girdle view, forming ribbons of cells joined side to side (via small interlocking spines at the valve edges; these not visible with the light microscope).  Ribbons often attached to submerged plant surfaces.

Typical habitats

Slow-flowing habitats such as ponds and lake outlets.

Notes

Can smother plant surfaces

Classification

Kingdom Chromista
Phylum Ochrophyta
Subphylum Khakista
Class Bacillariophyceae
Order Fragilariales
Family Fragilariaceae
Common name Diatoms