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Asterionella cf. formosa (Fragilariaceae)

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Diagnostic features

Long, narrow rectangular cells linked by mucilage pads to form star-like colonies. The ends of the cells are slightly flared. Chloroplasts are golden-brown, unlike those of Actinastrum (which are green).

[Asterionella], Lake Hayes, X320. Photo: Otago Regional Council & Manaaki Whenua Image
Asterionella, Lake Hayes, X320. Photo: Otago Regional Council & Manaaki Whenua
[Asterionella], Lake Rotorangi, X400. Photo: Manaaki Whenua Image
Asterionella, Lake Rotorangi, X400. Photo: Manaaki Whenua

Typical habitats

Common in the plankton of many lakes and ponds

Classification

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