Fine structure of the dinoflagellate<i>Aureodinium pigmentosum</i>gen. et sp. nov.

Abstract

The morphology and fine structure of a small marine dinoflagellate Aureodinium pigmentosum gen. et sp. nov. is described. In the motile state this organism possesses a delicate theca and two typically dinoflagellate flagella. The fine structure is similar in many respects to that of Woloszynskia micra Leadbeater & Dodge, which has already been described in detail. However, the new genus differs from Woloszynskia in having stalked pyrenoids and not having trichocysts. Peridinin is the main xanthophyll pigment. A non-motile athecate phase of the organism is also described.