Dictyosphaerium

Dictyosphaerium is a genus of freshwater green algae, belonging to the class Chlorophyceae. These algae are characterized by their colonial growth habit, where cells are arranged in groups of four or multiples of four, often embedded within a gelatinous matrix. The cells themselves are typically spherical to ovate and possess a single, parietal chloroplast, which is often cup-shaped or parietal. A distinguishing feature of Dictyosphaerium is the presence of a pyrenoid within the chloroplast.

The colonies of Dictyosphaerium are generally irregular in shape and can vary in size. They are found in a wide range of freshwater environments, including lakes, ponds, and slow-moving streams, often in planktonic communities. Reproduction in Dictyosphaerium occurs asexually through autospores. Daughter cells are formed within the parent cell and are released when the parent cell wall ruptures. These autospores then develop into new, independent colonies. The genus is cosmopolitan, meaning it can be found worldwide in suitable habitats. While Dictyosphaerium is a common component of freshwater phytoplankton, it is not typically considered a bloom-forming or nuisance alga. Its ecological role is primarily as a primary producer in its aquatic ecosystems.