Polysiphonia ceramiaeformis, also called banded siphon weed,[1] is a small red algae (Rhodophyta), in the genus Polysiphonia. Individuals are irregularly branched with the branches extending up to 5.5 centimetres (2.2 in) from a central node and ending in dense tufts of fibres.[2]
| Polysiphonia ceramiaeformis | |
|---|---|
| |
| Samples of Polysiphonia ceramiaeformis algae | |
Scientific classification 
| |
| (unranked): | Archaeplastida |
| Division: | Rhodophyta |
| Class: | Florideophyceae |
| Order: | Ceramiales |
| Family: | Rhodomelaceae |
| Genus: | Polysiphonia |
| Species: | P. ceramiaeformis
|
| Binomial name | |
| Polysiphonia ceramiaeformis P.Crouan & H.Crouan
| |
Description edit
This small red algae lacks a clearly to be seen main axis. Each branch is formed of axial cells with 10 - 12 periaxial cells of equal length, with forcipate incurved tips.[3] It is densely branched and attached by tangled prostrate axes. All axes are ecorticate. The rhizoids are numerous[2]
Reproduction edit
The plants are dioecious. The alga bears spermatangial branches on a cylindrical axis. Cystocarps are oval with a narrow ostiole. The tetraspores cells divide to forms cells in fours, these occur in a spiral series.[2]
Habitat edit
In pools at low water in sheltered sites.[2]
Distribution edit
Very rare on the British Isles.[4] Recorded from a few sites in Dorset,[5][2] also recorded from north west France and the Mediterranean.[2]
References edit
- ^ "Algae Base: Polysiphonia ceramiiformis P.Crouan & H.Crouan". Retrieved 31 January 2017.
- ^ a b c d e f Maggs, C.A. and Hommersand, M.H. 1993. Seaweeds of the British Isles Volume 1. Rhodophyta Part 3A Ceramiales. The Natural History Museum, London ISBN 0-11-310045-0
- ^ Jones, W.E. 1964(4) A key to the genera of the British seaweeds. Field studies (reprinted pp 1-32
- ^ Hardy, F.G. and Guiry, M.D. 2003. A Check-list and Atlas of the Seaweeds of Britain and Ireland. The British Phycological Society. ISBN 0-9527115-16
- ^ Batters, E.A.L. 1902. A Catalogue of The British Marine Algae. supplement to Journal of Botany 1902 pp.80 - 81
 | This Rhodophyta-related article is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it. |