ISSN:
1550-7408
Source:
Blackwell Publishing Journal Backfiles 1879-2005
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
SYNOPSIS. Trimastigamoeba philippinensis Whitmore 1911 from Florida was cultured in the laboratory at 22 to 25° C. on a modified Bunting's agar medium overlaid or not with Neff's ameba-saline. Studies of its general morphology, transition from ameboid to flagellate phase and vice versa, encystment, and excystment were made. In general, Whitmore's observations are confirmed, except for his conclusions concerning the number of flagella and whether or not there is a rhizoplast. The flagellate phase has two mastigonts, each composed of a pair of flagella attached to a basal granule (blepharoplast). Intermediate stages in the development of the mastigonts may have caused Whitmore to decide that a tri-flagellar phase was the usual condition. The two mastigonts are not at any time attached to one another, nor to the nucleus, nor is there any evidence of a rhizoplast or rhizostyle. In the flagellate phase the bases of the mastigonts are closely surrounded by an anterior, gullet-like invagination, posterior to which the blepharoplasts rest adjacent to the nucleus. The four flagella extend 20 to 25 μ beyond the anterior limit of the pocket. Detailed descriptions of the morphologies of the ameboid and flagellate phases are given to supplement the morphology described by Whitmore. Possible affinities to other amebo-flagellates are discussed. It is concluded that the organism is generically and specifically distinct; and while its name is erroneously descriptive of its flagellate phase, it is taxonomically valid.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1550-7408.1959.tb03929.x
