The extraordinary life forms of the dinoflagellate from the Mexican Pacific

Abstract

As new species are discovered, humanity becomes aware of the richness and diversity of nature. In marine ecosystems, particularly, we do not know entirely the ecological and economic benefits that phytoplankton provides. In this document, we will show the extraordinary life forms of marine dinoflagellates, who make up the second most abundant group after diatoms within marine phytoplankton, which contributes to the oxygen production and that are part of the basis of trophic chains of all aquatic systems. Dinoflagellates stand out for having a great variety of shapes, sizes and adaptations to survive in adverse conditions. From them, various useful products for society are obtained, such as food supplements and drugs. However, some species produce toxins, also called phycotoxins, which cause damage to aquatic ecosystems and represent risks to human health. Currently, we only know a small part of the diversity of dinoflagellates, its potential in the production of compounds and its use for the benefit of society. We are still a long way from knowing all that this wonderful microscopic world has to offer to humanity.

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