Any of a group of one-celled, microscopic green algae characterized by great variation in cell shape.
Typically the cell is divided symmetrically into semicells connected at a central point. Desmids are found worldwide, usually in acid bogs or lakes. Since most species have a limited range, the presence of specific desmids is helpful in characterizing water samples.
Desmid ( Micrasterias ) , highly magnified
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