Ankistrodesmus (Radiococcaceae)

Diagnostic features

Unicellular or colonial chlorophyte with curved needle-like cells tapering at both ends. They often cluster together in bundles.

[Ankistrodesmus] (sewage pond), X400. Photo: Manaaki Whenua Image — Ankistrodesmus (sewage pond), X400. Photo: Manaaki Whenua

[Ankistrodesmus] (sewage pond), X640. Photo: Manaaki Whenua Image — Ankistrodesmus (sewage pond), X640. Photo: Manaaki Whenua

Typical habitats

Found in the plankton of nutrient-rich lakes and ponds. Often abundant in sewage ponds, particularly during winter and spring.

Classification

Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Chlorophyta
Class	Chlorophyceae
Order	Chlamydomonadales
Family	Radiococcaceae
Common name	Green algae