Caption: Marine dinoflagellates (Ceratium tripos and Ceratium furca). Dinoflagellates are single-celled protozoa (protists) that exist as plankton in marine and fresh water. Certain genera such as Ceratium are armored dinoflagellates that possess thecal plates made of cellulose. Many are photosynthetic, making their own food using the energy from sunlight, and they also provide a food source for other organisms. Some species are capable of producing their own light through bioluminescence. This genus is characterized by having hollow horns which assist in floatation. They also possess two flagella which are used for self propulsion. "Red tide" is due to certain species of dinoflagellates that contain neurotoxins.
Magnification*: x80
Type: SEM
Keywords: 20220A.TIF03.01.04 alga algae aquatic armored dinoflagellate bioluminescence cellulose Ceratium dinoflagellate dinoflagellates eukaryote fresh water marine marine dinoflagellate phytoplankton plankton protist protozoa protozoan red tide salt water sea water sulcul groove thecal plates undulating flagellum SEM |

*(Magnifications are based on a 35mm slide image of 24mm in the narrow dimension.)