Raphidiophrys
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| Raphidiophrys | |
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| Raphidiophrys contractilis | |
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| Genus: | Raphidiophrys Archer 1867 |
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Raphidiophrys is a genus of centrohelid[1] with radiating axopodia.[2] R. intermedia is found in the bottom sludge of freshwater bodies in Canada, Chile, Argentina, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Russia, and central Europe.[3] Raphidiophrys have bipartite scales are a defining characteristic among species. Differences in type and size of scales are used to differentiate amongst the members of this genus. The genus Raphidiophrys was discovered in 1867 by W. Archer. Raphidiophrys is one of very few centrohelids in which dimorphism has been shown.
Raphidiophrys can be found in freshwater habitats.[4] Species can be found solitarily and/or colonially;[5] in that stage interconnected with cytoplasmic bridges.[6] Species are able to coordinate while in a colony to hunt prey such as Paramecium. Like most heliozoans, Raphidiophrys species can capture prey using their axopodia.[6] In Raphidiophrys contractilis it has been observed that upon capturing prey, its axopodia will contract toward the cell body,[6] however, the presence of Ca2+ is required.[7]