Characterization of Paraurostyla coronata sp n. including a comparative account of other members of the genus

Paraurostyla coronata sp. n. is widely distributed in the North Indian fres h water bodies. The cell measures about 200 x 60 mu m and exhibits diffused green cytoplasmic pigmentation and pink coloration at the anterior and pos terior segments. Dorsally, sub-pellicular pigment granules are arranged in about 15 linear rows as obliquely placed pairs, whereas, at the cell extrem ities such granules are not packed in any specific design. Seven frontal ci rri are arranged in a distinct pattern wherein 6 of them are placed in one row along the AZM shoulder and buccal cirrus positioned away from this row. Cirri on the ventral surface include 6-8 rows, 2 rows of marginal and 6-10 transverse cirri arranged in an oblique pattern. The dorsal surface bears 4 dorsal and 2 dorso-marginal bristle rows. A comparison of combination of various characters and the morphogenetic process reveals that P. coronata i s distinct from the other described species of the genus.