Cryptomonada

views updated

Cryptomonada (Cryptophyta) A phylum of the Protoctista comprising unicellular organisms with flattened ovoid cells and two undulipodia (flagella) arising from an obliquely situated gullet (crypt). Cryptomonads include freshwater and marine algae, which contain chlorophyll and phycobiliprotein photosynthetic pigments; and heterotrophic protozoa, which may be carnivorous or parasitic (in animal intestines).