Some dinoflagellates produce neurotoxins that cause paralysis in aquatic life and humans. Exposure can occur through direct contact with contaminated water or by consuming organisms that have ingested these dinoflagellates.

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Dinoflagellates are a subgroup of the Chromalveolata supergroup that are mostly marine organisms and form an important component of plankton. They generally have two flagella that cause a spinning motion and often possess a hard outer covering composed of cellulose plates.

Dinoflagellates

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Microbiology covers the scope and sequence requirements for a single-semester microbiology course for non-majors. The book presents the core concepts of microbiology with a focus on applications for careers in allied health. The pedagogical features of the text make the material interesting and accessible while maintaining the career-application focus and scientific rigor inherent in the subject matter. Microbiology’s art program enhances students’ understanding of concepts through clear and effective illustrations, diagrams, and photographs.

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Dinoflagellates exhibit diverse nutritional strategies, including phototrophy, heterotrophy, and mixotrophy.

Dinoflagellate Nutrition

Photosynthetic dinoflagellates utilize chlorophyll a, chlorophyll c2, and other pigments to capture light energy.

Dinoflagellate Photosynthetic Pigments

A theca is a protective, armor-like outer cell wall consisting of cellulose plates found on some dinoflagellates.

Dinoflagellate Theca

Dinoflagellate Neurotoxins

Gonyaulax is a genus of dinoflagellates that is a major producer of neurotoxins, forming dense populations during red tides that cause paralytic shellfish poisoning.

Gonyaulax

Alexandrium is a genus of dinoflagellates that is a major producer of neurotoxins, forming dense populations during red tides that cause paralytic shellfish poisoning.

Alexandrium

Pfiesteria is a genus of dinoflagellates, which includes the species Pfiesteria piscicida. It can produce toxins harmful to fish and is associated with symptoms such as memory loss and confusion in exposed humans.

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