Cells mostly single, but in some cases filament-forming. Shape straight and cylindrical, up to 40x longer than broad, usually with one or more median inflations. Apices slightly tapered and flat, in some taxa ornamented with a ring of spines or tubercles. Cell wall with irregularly spaced pores. Chloroplasts ribbon-shaped and parietal or axial, with pyrenoids distributed along their length.
Occurs in waters of almost all types. Most frequent in the benthos of slightly acidic to neutral lakes or streams.
Estimated number of taxa in this genus: approx. 40 (worldwide)
Pleurotaenium trabecula |
Pleurotaenium tridentulum |
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