| Gonyaulax | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Chromalveolata |
| Superphylum: | Alveolata |
| Phylum: | Dinoflagellata |
| Order: | Gonyaulacales |
| Genus: | Gonyaulax |
Gonyaulax(also known as red dinoflagellates) is a genus of Alveolata. They undergo rapid multiplication and they make the sea appear red. They produce a potent toxin known as Saxitoxin which affects nerve impulses and can lead to paralysis of muscles and may eventually end in asphyxiation.[1]
Members are covered by closely fitting cellulose plates and have two flagella: one extends backward from a longitudinal groove in the armour, and the other, in an encircling groove, may help to keep the animal afloat. There is no eyespot (stigma), and the pigment-containing chromatophores are yellow to dark brown. G. catenella, a toxic planktonic form, is sometimes abundant enough to colour water and cause the phenomenon called red tide, which may kill many fish and other animals. Human beings may be poisoned by eating mussels that have ingested large quantities of G. catenella.
It includes the species Gonyaulax polyedra.[2]
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