Anhydrattisia

Anhydrattisia is a genus of microscopic photosynthetic organisms that are classified within the eukaryotic kingdom. Taxonomically, it is placed in the phylum Chlorophyta, class Chlorophyceae, order Anhydrattiales. The genus was first described in the late 19th century by the botanist G. R. Huber during a survey of freshwater algae in the Lake Murray region of West Africa. Subsequent studies have found representative species in a variety of temperate and subtropical freshwater habitats, often forming loose mats on submerged vegetation or the surfaces of rocks.

Morphologically, Anhydrattisia cells are typically cylindrical and range from 2 to 20 µm in length. The cells contain a single chloroplast that occupies much of the cytoplasm, giving the organism a green appearance under microscopy. The cells are arranged in short filaments or occur as solitary units, and they possess a cell wall composed of cellulose and pectin-like substances. The genus is distinguished from closely related taxa by the absence of mucilaginous sheaths around its filaments and by its unique spore formation, where spores are released as part of a gelatinous mass that aids in dispersal.

Ecologically, Anhydrattisia contributes to primary production in freshwater ecosystems, serving as a food source for invertebrates and microzooplankton. Research into its lipid profile has indicated potential for biofuel development, although large‑scale applications remain speculative. The genus is considered non-pathogenic to humans and plays a modest role in biogeochemical cycling of carbon and nitrogen within its native environments.