Raphidiophrys capitata
Siemensma & Roijacker, 1988
Most likely ID: n.a.
Synonym: n.a.
Sampling location: Moss
Phylogenetic tree: Raphidiophrys capitata
Diagnosis:
- cells about 35 µm in diameter (without coat of scales)
- solitary forms or in colonies
- scales 6–14 µm x 2–4 µm, shaped long elliptical
- scales boat-shaped, with inflexed rims, poles often capitate
- axopods up to 170 µm long
- centroplast in the center of the cell
- nucleus in eccentric position
- 2 – 3 contractile vacuoles
So far I have only found one specimen of Raphidiophrys capitata and unfortunately I have only taken very few photos. Mesotrophic and eutrophic waters are given as the habitat of Raphidiophrys capitata. Interestingly, I found Raphidiophrys capitata in a moss sample that had been moistened with a little water.
At small magnifications Raphidiophrys capitata resembles the similar species Raphidiophrys intermedia. However, the latter species has almost oblong shaped scales, the edges of which show a clear transverse striation. In contrast, the scales of Raphidiophrys capitata are long ellipsoid with inflexed rims. This gives them the shape of a boat, what is difficult to see under the light microscope. The fine structure of the scales cannot be resolved even at the highest magnification.
More images and information on Raphidiophrys capitata: Ferry Siemensma-Microworld-Raphidiophrys capitata
Fig. 1: Raphidiophrys capitata. D = 29 µm (without scales). A specimen found in Moss. AX = axopodia, CV = contractile vacuole, SC = scales. Obj. 100 X.
Fig. 2 a-b: Raphidiophrys capitata. Two focal planes on the layer of scales covering the cell. The scales of this specimen are 6–11 µm long with an elongated, elliptical shape. Same scales are slightly rhombic. Obj. 100 X.