A fine structural study ofOlisthodiscus luteuscarter

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Abstract
Fine structurally, Olisthodiscus luteus is characterised by possessing a sub-surface layer of electron opaque ‘spheres’ approximately 35 nm in diameter. These ‘spheres’ originate in vesicles surrounding the Golgi apparatus. The flagella are of the heterokont type and are attached, at their bases, by a large complicated root to the nucleus. The mitochondria, besides containing microvilli, contain fine fibrils of material that can be removed by treatment with DNase. The phyletic affinities of Olisthodiscus are discussed with reference to this fine structural study and recent biochemical work. Although no conclusive evidence is available, it is suggested that Olisthodiscus should be transferred from the Xanthophyceae temporarily to the Chrysophyceae.