I have only found Trichocerca capucina once so far. These were plankton samples from the pond at the Fliesshorn campsite in Dingelsdorf. The samples were taken in August 2024.

Trichocerca capucina is very large at around 400 µm in length and therefore very conspicuous in the samples. Even under light coverslip pressure, the specimens retract quickly and the typical “hood”, which is formed by the anterior margin of the lorica, can then be recognized (s. fig. 1 c). In addition, the collar of the lorica is foldable, thus closing the opening when the specimen retracts. The folds of the collar are easy to recognize (s. figs. 3 and 4). The head is separated from the body by a very clear transverse fold.

The specimens in my population were all very transparent, possibly due to a lack of food. The internal organs were therefore very easy to recognize (s. figs 1 a-c and 2). In contrast to the descriptions in the literature, I was able to identify at least 6 secondary toes (s. fig. 5). The literature reports a maximum of three (Koste, 1978). I cannot judge whether this is within the variability of the species or whether they were overlooked in the past. However, all secondary toes can only be recognized in strongly squashed specimens.

More images and information on Trichocerca capucina: Michael Plewka-Freshwater life-Trichocerca capucina