Gonyaulax
Gonyaulax is a genus of unicellular marine dinoflagellates in the family Gonyaulacaceae, order Gonyaulacales. Members are typically photosynthetic plankton, though some species can be mixotrophic. They are usually thecate (armored) dinoflagellates with two flagella, and they occur in surface waters across many oceans, from temperate to tropical regions. Blooms of Gonyaulax can contribute to red tides and alter coastal water appearance and chemistry.
Ecology and biology: Gonyaulax species inhabit planktonic communities and play a role in nutrient and energy
Toxicity and human health: Some Gonyaulax species produce toxins that can accumulate in shellfish and other
Taxonomy and species: The genus comprises multiple species, historically including Gonyaulax spinifera and Gonyaulax polygramma. Taxonomic
Overview: Gonyaulax is a notable example of marine dinoflagellates whose blooms can influence marine ecosystems and