Mallomonas
Mallomonas spp. · Phytoplankton
Under the microscope · Photo: Michael Brondino / CC BY-SA
Also called Scaled chrysophyte
How to identify Mallomonas
- Under the microscope: single oval golden cells covered in overlapping silica scales
- Many species carry long bristles
- One visible flagellum
- In the water: not visible
Similar species
Synura cells form ball shaped colonies; Trachelomonas has a solid brown shell and no bristles.
Profile
| Season | Spring, fall and under ice. |
|---|---|
| Starts | About 35 to 55 F |
| Light | Low to moderate light |
| Depth | Upper water column |
| How it spreads or reproduces | Cell division and silica cysts |
| Habitat | Clear to moderately nutrient rich lakes and ponds; often soft water and cool temperatures. |
Why it matters in a lake
A cool water golden alga common in spring counts. Harmless.
Where it is found
- Idaho: Common
- Oregon: Common
- Wyoming: Common
Classification
| Kingdom | Chromista |
|---|---|
| Phylum | Ochrophyta |
| Class | Synurophyceae |
| Order | Synurales |
| Family | Mallomonadaceae |
| Scientific name | Mallomonas spp. |
Dinobryon
Synura
Uroglena
MicrocystisNeed a hand?
Want to know what is in your water?
Lab counts of the algae in your lake show what is growing, how much and whether a bloom is coming.
Idaho / Wyoming (208) 501-4531Oregon (541) 280-0596