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Species

Species - Alexandrium catenella

Scientific name:
Alexandrium catenella ((Whedon & Kofoid 1936) Balech 1985)
Common name:
toxic dinoflagellate
General description:
Summary Description

Alexandrium catenella is a toxic dinoflagellate that is found as single cells or chains of 2, 4 or 8 cells (rarely 16). It has a clear plate-like covering and a distinct girdle flagellum. Cells in chains are compressed and 20-22 µm high, actively swimming in a whirling motion. Cysts of A. catenella have clear walls, are ovoid or cylindrical in shape, and have rounded ends. Cysts of A. catenella range in size from 35-50 µm long and 20-30 µm wide. Cysts are covered with a mucilagenous material, have globular contents and a dark accumulation body.
Australian distribution:
Established
Detected in:
New South Wales
South Australia
Western Australia
Invasion status:

Cryptogenic

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Caption:
Alexandrium catenella cyst - NIMPIS.

Source:
Copyright Notice: Dr Sue Blackburn, CSIRO Marine Research. Acknowledge: true
Caption:
Alexandrium catenella diagram & key features. Plankton cells. Small armoured cells (25-32 µm across) with distinct covering (theca). Cells usually found in chains of 2,4 or 8 cells. No pore on margin of 1′ plate. 1′ plate usually connected to apex. Sediment cysts; clear, ovoid or cylindrical (35-50 µm long, 20-30 µm across). Mucilaginous material covering cyst wall; globular cyst contents. Dark accumulation body.

Source:
Copyright Notice: Diagram by Chris Bolch, CSIRO Marine Research. Acknowledge: true
Caption:
Alexandrium catenella cells - NIMPIS.

Source:
Copyright Notice: Naomi Parker, CSIRO Marine Research. Acknowledge: true

Last modified: 11 February 2020