portrait

Description:

Detail of one of the two macronuclei of Loxodes striatus with its adherent micronucleus. There are two spheroid macronuclei, one anterior and one in the mid body, each with an adherent micronucleus. The arrangement of the macronuclei and the pellicular striations distinguish L. striatus from the similar L. vorax and L. rostrum. Many food vacuoles are seen. Found in polysaprobic habitats. Feeds on cyanobacteria, algae, flagellates and other ciliates. From organically enriched freshwater pond sediment near Boise, Idaho. DIC optics.