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The fine structure ofCristispira from the lamellibranchCryptomya californica conrad

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Abstract

The fine structure ofCristispira from the lamellibranchCryptomya californica Conrad was examined by Nomarski differential interference, Hoffman modulation contrast, phase contrast, polarizing, and darkfield optics, which were useful for observing the motility, morphology, and organelles of livingCristispira within the crystalline style. Transmission electron microscopy studies of double-stained sections and negatively stained whole cells revealed details of the outer sheath, axial filament, and the protoplasmic cylinder. Hundreds of periplasmic flagella were observed, as well as membrane-bound vesicles and lipid accumulations in the protoplasm, which may help to explain the mutualistic relationship which seems to exist betweenCristispira spp. and their molluscan hosts. Also described are a dialysis method for producing concentrated populations of viableCristispira from the clam, and a minimal-salts medium for their short-term maintenance.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Biology, University of Oregon, 97403, Eugene, Oregon, USA

    Edwin V. Lawry & Harrison M. Howard

  2. Department of Microbiology and School of Oceanography, Oregon State University, 97331, Corvallis, Oregon, USA

    John A. Baross & Richard Y. Morita

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  1. Edwin V. Lawry
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  2. Harrison M. Howard
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  3. John A. Baross
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  4. Richard Y. Morita
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Lawry, E.V., Howard, H.M., Baross, J.A. et al. The fine structure ofCristispira from the lamellibranchCryptomya californica conrad. Current Microbiology 6, 355–360 (1981). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01567011

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