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Diagnostic features

Unicellular chlorophyte with spherical cells, each of which supports numerous thin spines. Spines of different cells may entangle, creating false colonies. Chloroplast green and cup-shaped, containing a pyrenoid.

Typical habitats

Found in the plankton of nutrient-rich lakes and ponds. Can be abundant in sewage ponds at any time of year.

Classification

Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Chlorophyta
Class Chlorophyceae
Order Chlamydomonadales
Family Micractiniaceae
Common name Green algae