Ankyra is a genus of green algae in the family Characiaceae. This genus of algae is closely related to Atractomorpha and Sphaeroplea.[1] They are found in stagnant waters.[2]
Ankyra consists of single cells that are planktonic or epiphytic. Cells are spindle-shaped or cylindrical with the ends tapering into long spines. At one end, the spine is bifid and/or enlarged into a spatula-like appendage. The cell wall consists of two pieces that are joined together at the middle of the cell. One band-shaped chloroplast lines the inside of the cell membrane, and contains a single pyrenoid.[3]
Reproduction occurs via zoospores which are released when the two halves of the cell wall break apart, or through a hole formed in the cell wall. Sexual reproduction has not been observed in Ankyra. However, various aplanospore-like stages and other resting stages have been observed in Ankyra, and need to be studied further.[2]
Species are identified based on the shape of the cells and their appendages.