Show UniqueIdentification

Id 100
Identification Type Algae
Name Charophyte
Distinguishing Features bumpy
high-birefringence
Description Multicellular charophyte algae such as _Chara_ form calcium carbonate (calcite) encrustations on their surfaces. Transparent colorless to murky or stained with black. Nonpleochroic. High birefringence (small irregular calcite crystals). Irregular shapes include tubes and nodules. Moderate relief. _Chara_ is typically found in calcium-bicarbonate waters; other genera are found in fresher water.
Tags Carbonate
transparent
colorless
External Resources
Imposters
Images
Unique Identification: Charophyte
Site name: NFII-2
Light type: Plane-Polarized Light
Magnification: not specified
Submitted by: Joe Smoot
Notes: high relief cylindrical with swirl pattern
Image Tags: none
Unique Identification: Charophyte
Site name: NF-II-1
Light type: Plane-Polarized Light
Magnification: 400
Submitted by: Joe Smoot
Notes: rod-shaped high relief, granular surface
Image Tags: none
Unique Identification: Charophyte
Site name: NF-II-1
Light type: Cross-Polarized Light
Magnification: 400
Submitted by: Joe Smoot
Notes: rod-shaped high birefringence, granular surface
Image Tags: none

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