single cells

Description:

Achnanthes sp. (Bacillarophyta, Pennales) is a small (length ca. 10 um) unicellular diatom occurring in the Kinneret littoral zone in the benthos, but also in the plankton and as epiphytes. At least 3 species of Achnanthes occur in the lake. Achnanthes usually grows on agar when we try to isolate other species from the lake plankton. This picture of Achnanthes grown in culture shows the cells from both top view (elongated oval shape) and valve view (rectangular shape).