Tripos platycornis
Tripos platycornis
Tripos platycornis is a microscopic, single-celled dinoflagellate with a distinctive horn-shaped body. In one scientific study, cells measured approximately 190–300 µm long, with two broad, curved horns and a longer pointed extension. Its cell surface is covered by protective plates, giving it a characteristic armoured appearance under the microscope.
About this species
Species identity
Tripos platycornis is a microscopic, single-celled dinoflagellate with a distinctive horn-shaped body. In one scientific study, cells measured approximately 190–300 µm long, with two broad, curved horns and a longer pointed extension. Its cell surface is covered by protective plates, giving it a characteristic armoured appearance under the microscope.
Where it lives
Tripos platycornis is widely distributed across the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Oceans, including tropical, subtropical and some temperate marine waters. It has been recorded in the Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea, Arabian Sea, waters around Japan and Australia, and parts of the North Atlantic.
It occurs in both coastal and open-ocean environments, drifting as part of the plankton. Although it inhabits illuminated waters, researchers have also recorded it at depths of 75 m in the Arabian Sea.
Role in the ecosystem
Tripos platycornis is a photosynthetic dinoflagellate that uses sunlight and carbon dioxide to produce organic matter. As part of marine phytoplankton, it contributes to primary production and the energy available to marine food webs. Through its growth and eventual consumption or decomposition, it also participates in the cycling of carbon and nutrients in the ocean.
Scientific reference
Citation
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FAQ
Can Tripos platycornis swim even though it is plankton?
Yes! Like other Tripos dinoflagellates, it has two tiny whip-like structures called flagella that allow it to swim through the water. However, ocean currents still carry it over much larger distances.
Do all Tripos platycornis cells look exactly alike?
Surprisingly, no! Scientists have photographed cells with different shapes and horn structures, even when they came from the same genetically identical population grown in the laboratory.