The Single Mitochondrion, Fine Structure, and Germination of the Spore of Blastocladiella emersonii

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Abstract
The motile spore of the water fungus Blastocladiella emersonii contains a single large, posterior, eccentri-cally disposed mitochondrion; some 6-12 prominent, strongly osmiophilic, lipid-like organelles, bordered by a double membrane, occur along its outer edge. A single flagellum with the classical 9-plus-2 fibrillar structure is attached by at least one banded rootlet to the mitochondrion. The nuclear cap (a package of ribosomes) overlies the nucleus and is separated from it by a double membrane. The cytoplasm is somewhat granular, contains structures believed to be organelles (previously described as gamma particles), but is devoid of any obvious cytoplasmic reticulum. Before spore germination, the flagellum undergoes a series of characteristic movements. Following this, the nuclear apparatus rotates through some 270[degree], but the spore itself does not turn. The flagellum is then retracted into the cell. Subsequently, the spore germinates by formation of a germ tube and the nuclear cap disintegrates.