Cell morphogenesis in desmids (Zygnematophyceae, Desmidiaceae): taxonomic significance of their shape

Abstract

The article deals with the problems of taxonomy of desmid algae (Desmidiaceae). An analysis of the literature devoted to studies of cell morphogenesis and the role of cellular structures in the formation of daughter semicells was carried out. It is shown that the traits of desmidian algae cells, such as the length and number of processes, the degree of expression of lobes, and other morphological structures, are quite variable at the species level and depend on many factors. However, at the generic level, cell shape is generally stable.