colony

Description:

Synura sphagnicola, a colonial chrysophyte. Synonymous with Skadovskiella. Cells are joined at their posterior ends in the center of the colony. Cells are ovoid with two golden chloroplasts. There are two equal flagella less than 1 cell length. The cell is covered by siliceous scales the morphology of which is diagnostic for the species (see accompanying image). A stigma is absent. Large vacuoles containing the glucopyranoside storage polymer, chrysolaminarin (leucosin) accumulate in the cytoplasm. The colonies swim with a slow rolling motion.From a polysaprobic temporary freshwater farm pond near Boise, Idaho. Differential interference contrast.