This microscopic image was captured on October 9th, 2024, but the sample was collected on September 18th, 2024, by Tarleton student Maria Gonzalez. The photo shows filaments of Spirogyra with its characteristic spiral chloroplasts.
Location:
Collected from a Slow-moving section of River near Comanche, TX, proctor spillway side: 31 ° 58’05.6” N 98 ° 29’05.1” W. Water temperature was approximately [insert temperature], and pH was [insert pH level].
Organism ID:
Genus: Spirogyra
Family: Zygnemataceae
Identified based on filamentous structure, visible chloroplasts, and reproductive conjugation tubes.
Description:
Spirogyra is a genus of filamentous green algae found in freshwater environments. Its cells are cylindrical, forming unbranched chains. A distinguishing feature is the spiral arrangement of chloroplasts inside the cells. Spirogyra reproduces sexually through conjugation and asexually through fragmentation.
Ecology:
Spirogyra plays a key role in aquatic ecosystems as a primary producer, contributing to oxygen production through photosynthesis. It is often found in slow-moving waters with moderate to high nutrient levels. Blooms can impact water quality by causing oxygen depletion during decomposition.
References:
“Name Derivation:” Phycokey - Spirogyra, cfb.unh.edu/phycokey/Choices/Charophyceae/conjugate_non_desmids/SPIROGYRA/Spirogyra_key.html. Accessed 20 Oct. 2024.e.)

Magnification of all photos: 1000× (oil immersion)
Habitat: planktonic algae from murky water in an artificial pond.
Many individuals present in sample (ten pictured). Using stage micrometer for calibration, loricae estimated to be 38-45 µm from tip to tip, and 19-25 µm wide.

Magnification of all photos: 1000× (oil immersion)
Habitat: water and debris from a shallow pond with various aquatic plants (Potamogeton, Ceratophyllum).
Using stage micrometer for calibration, estimated to be about 11 µm long and 6 µm wide.