Page 84 - Algae Anatomy, Biochemistry, and Biotechnology

Anatomy 67

FIGURE 2.38 Schematic drawing of longitudinal flagellum of Ceratium furca during its contraction showing
the striated Rf.

Transition Zone
While both the flagellar axoneme and the basal body that continues it are very constant in mor-
phology among the different algae, the transition region where they meet varies considerably,
and is considered one of the most useful indicators of phylogenetic relationships. This region some-
times contains particular structures such as helices, star-shaped bodies, and transverse partitions
referred to as basal plates. Five main types of transition zones may be distinguished, taking into
account that secondary variations can appear within each.