Possible resting spores of dissodinium pseudolunula (Dinophyta) and their relation to other taxa

Abstract

Previously unknown dinoflagellate resting spores found in the North Sea were germinated in culture. The emerging dinospores proved to be identical with those of an ectoparasite, Dissodinium pseudolunula. Hence, the resting spores are interpreted as an integral stage in the life cycle of this species. It is shown that Pyrocystis margalefii from the Mediterranean Sea is probably identical with the resting stages of D. pseudolunula. Possible affinity to the fossil Palaeocystodinium golzowense is discussed. © 1981 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.