Reconstruction of the flagellar apparatus and microtubular cytoskeleton in Pyramimonas gelidicola (Prasinophyceae, Chlorophyta)

Abstract

The absolute configuration of the flagellar apparatus in Pyramimonas gelidicolaMcFaddenet al. has been determined and shows identity with P. obovata, indicating that they are closely related. Comparison with the flagellar apparatus of quadriflagellate zoospores from the more advanced Chlorophyceae suggest that Pyramimonas may be a primitive ancestral form. The microtubular cytoskeleton has been examined in detail and is shown to be unusual in that it does not attach to the flagellar apparatus. Cytoskeletal microtubules are nucleated individually, and this is interpreted as an adaptation to the methods of mitosis and scale deployment. In view of the primitive nature of these processes, it is ..