Defining Characteristics:

  • Colony forming? Possible under grazing pressure
  • Often solitary and occasionally in bundles
  • Filamentous? Yes
  • Cells shape:
    • Variable, but generally cylindrical or barrel shaped
    • Visible constriction at cross walls
  • Aerotopes usually present
  • Often express heterocysts
  • Akinetes may be present
  • Could be confused with: Planktothrix

Aphanizomenon

Aphanizomenon

Aphanizomenon