Conjugating spirogyra

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Conjugating spirogyra

Light micrograph showing conjugating filaments of Spirogyra, a green alga which forms slimy threads in stagnant or slow moving water. Conjugation, a form of sexual reproduction, occurs in spring when the threads come together in pairs. Both filaments put out papillae, which meet to form conjugation tubes, seen here. Cytoplasmic mass from the cells of one of the threads (termed male) migrates through the tubes to fuse with the cytoplasm in the (female) cells of the second thread. This produces a zygospore which either germinates at once or lies dormant until the following spring. Dark field illumination. Magnification: x200 at 35mm size

Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations

Media ID 9194103

© POWER AND SYRED/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Alga Algae Algal Conjugation Sexual Reproduction

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate process of conjugating spirogyra, a green alga commonly found in stagnant or slow-moving water. The image reveals the slimy threads formed by Spirogyra and highlights their fascinating reproductive behavior. During springtime, these threads come together in pairs to undergo conjugation, a form of sexual reproduction. The photograph captures the moment when both filaments extend papillae that ultimately meet to create conjugation tubes. These tubes serve as conduits for the migration of cytoplasmic mass from one thread (referred to as male) into the cells of the second thread (considered female). This fusion results in the formation of a zygospore, which can either germinate immediately or remain dormant until the following spring. Dark field illumination enhances this stunning micrograph's visual impact, allowing us to marvel at nature's intricacies on a microscopic level. With a magnification factor of x200 at 35mm size, every detail is brought into sharp focus. This remarkable image not only provides insight into algae biology but also serves as a reminder of nature's diverse reproductive strategies. It encapsulates both scientific curiosity and aesthetic beauty while highlighting the wonders hidden within our natural world.

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