Landcare Research - Manaaki Whenua

Landcare-Research -Manaaki Whenua

Algal factsheet: Spondylosium (Desmidiaceae)


Diagnostic features

Pseudofilamentous desmid formed by chains of cells, each of which is divided into two slightly bean-shaped semicells by a deep central constriction or isthmus.  This constriction is much deeper than in Hyalotheca or Desmidium, the other filamentous desmids in this guide.  Each semicell has a single chloroplast.

Typical habitats

Found in acidic waters, including wetlands.

Classification

Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Charophyta
Class Zygnemophyceae
Order Desmidiales
Family Desmidiaceae
Common name Green algae