In algal anatomy, a pit connection is a hole in the
septum
In biology, a septum (Latin for ''something that encloses''; plural septa) is a wall, dividing a cavity or structure into smaller ones. A cavity or structure divided in this way may be referred to as septate.
Examples
Human anatomy
* Interat ...
between two algal cells, and is found only in the
red algae − specifically, all orders except the
Porphyridiales and haploid
Bangiales.
They are often stoppered with proteinaceous "pit plugs". By contrast, many
fungi
A fungus (plural, : fungi or funguses) is any member of the group of Eukaryote, eukaryotic organisms that includes microorganisms such as yeasts and Mold (fungus), molds, as well as the more familiar mushrooms. These organisms are classified ...
(only ascomycetes and basidiomycetes, as most other groups lack septa) contain septal pores − an unrelated phenomenon.
Characteristics
A sieve-like membrane may cover the pit in living algae,
[ but in the majority of algae a plug forms, they likely limit the transfer of metabolites between neighbouring cells.]
Formation
Primary pit connections are formed between cells in the same filament, derived from the same parent cell by its division.[ Such connections are always single, and usually circular;][ this is a result of their method of formation. The septum is formed as the walls of a filament grow inwards, dividing the cell; this results in a hole in the middle of the tube where the walls don't quite merge.][ Thus pit connections are visible in the youngest of septa, widening as the septum thickens, until in some cases they may ultimately occupy the entire septum.][
Secondary connections, by contrast, occur between unrelated cells, and serve a role in transferring cell contents and nutrients.]
References
External links
* Transverse SEM images of pit connections in the coralline ''Synarthrophyton
''Synarthrophyton'' is a genus of thalloid red algae comprising eight species. The monomerous, crustose thalli are composed of a single system of filaments which grow close to the underlying surface. ''Synarthrophyton'' reproduces by means of f ...
'' can be seen in Figs. 54 & 60 in
* (Lower quality) transverse SEM images of pit connections in the coralline ''Phymatolithon
''Phymatolithon'' is a genus of non geniculate coralline red algae, known from the UK, and Australia. It is encrusting, flat, and unbranched; it has tetrasporangia and bisporangia borne in multiporate conceptacles. Some of its cells bear small ...
'' are available on page 138 at .
{{Protist structures
Red algae