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Fragilaria (Fragilariaceae)

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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.

[Fragilaria], Waiorau tarn, X640 Photo: Otago Regional Council & Manaaki Whenua Image
Fragilaria, Waiorau tarn, X640 Photo: Otago Regional Council & Manaaki Whenua
[Fragilaria] bloom, Lake Hayes outlet Photo: Otago Regional Council & Manaaki Whenua Image
Fragilaria bloom, Lake Hayes outlet Photo: Otago Regional Council & Manaaki Whenua

Typical habitats

Slow-flowing habitats such as ponds and lake outlets.

Classification

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