The Frustular Morphology and Distribution of Cyclotella gamma Sov. (Bacillariophyceae)

Diatom collections from several lentic aquatic habitats in northern lower Michigan were found to contain a large benthic centric diatom. Comparison with type material revealed this diatom to be Cyclotella gamma Sov. Specimens ranged in size from 20 to 35 μm and had striae densities of 5 to 8 in 10 μm. Valves are granular externally and possess central and marginal strutted processes internally; as well as a single, well-developed labiate process. The striae are alveolate in nature. Cyclotella gamma is probably more common than records indicate which may in part be attributable to its confusion with C. meneghiniana Kiltz