Chamaesiphonaceae

/ˌkæməˌsaɪfəˈneɪsi/ noun

Definition

A family of filamentous cyanobacteria characterized by their simple tubular structure and reproduction by means of small motile cells.

Etymology

From the genus 'Chamaesiphon' plus the Latin suffix '-aceae' used in taxonomy to denote a family. Established as a formal taxonomic classification for primitive cyanobacteria.

Kelly Says

The Chamaesiphonaceae are living fossils—their basic body structure hasn't changed much in 2 billion years, which is why they're so useful for understanding what early photosynthetic life was probably like.

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