The biology and ultrastructure of the soil testate amoeba Tracheleuglypha dentata (Rhizopoda: Euglyphidae).

The biology and ultrastructure of Tracheleuglypha dentata is described from studies of specimens grown in clonal culture. Shell formation and cytokinesis appears to be similar to that seen in other members of the family Euglyphidae. The organic cement collar that holds opposed shells together at division is structurally different from that found between shell plates. The status of this collar, which is a transitory structure in field specimens, as a diagnostic feature is discussed. The organic cement that binds shell plates together is divided into three distinct layers. Changes in the cytoplasm and especially the cisternae of the Golgi are described at different stages of reserve shell plate production. Small electron-dense particles seen in the dictyosome are also seen being added to the membrane enclosed vesicles which surround reserve shell plates, this may be evidence to link the Golgi directly with silica deposition.