Spindle-shaped Gyrodinium
Gyrodinium spirale
Gyrodinium spirale is a heterotrophic dinoflagellate that grazes on other plankton instead of relying only on sunlight.
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About this species
Species identity
Gyrodinium spirale is a microzooplankton organism that feeds on planktonic cells such as diatoms. It helps route bloom production through smaller consumers before larger zooplankton feed.
Where it lives
Gyrodinium spirale is widespread in marine plankton and occurs in coastal and open waters where it can exploit dense phytoplankton communities. It can be important in food webs that route energy through microzooplankton before larger consumers feed.
Role in the ecosystem
Spindle-shaped Gyrodinium highlights the often-hidden microzooplankton step in marine food webs.
Scientific reference
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Explore and connect
Open the primary consumer view and compare this species with related marine life.