Triploceras

Triploceras is a genus of desmid in the family Desmidiaceae.

Description

Triploceras exists as solitary cells, which are elongated and constricted at the middle ; the two halves are called semicells. At tip of either semicell, the cell is tipped with spiny lobes, similar to the polar lobes found in Micrasterias. Along the margins of the semicells are many whorls of processes that may be tipped with spines or teeth. Cells have one chloroplast filling the cell.

Identification

Triploceras is easily recognizable due to its elongated shape and polar lobes. The similar genus Triplastrum also has polar spines, but lacks protuberances along the sides of the cell.

Phylogeny

Phylogenetically, Triploceras is currently known to be embedded within the genus Micrasterias. Despite the similar rod-like shape, it is not closely related to other rod-shaped genera such as Pleurotaenium or Triplastrum.

Distribution

Two species, Triploceras gracile and T. verticillatum are widely distributed throughout the world. Another species, T. splendens is rare and restricted to Southeast Asia and northern Australia.