Phycokey - Arthrodesmus










Click on images for larger format
Name derivation:

Morphology:
Unicellular desmid with isthmus and two opposing spines on each hemicell. Solid cellulose spines contain no cytoplasm.
Similar genera:
Staurastrum is similar, but has two or more "arms" (with cytoplasm extending to the terminus of each arm) instead of spines.
Habitat:
Freshwater lakes, both planktonic, aufwuchs, and benthic.

References:

Name derivation: