H. akashiwo cells are relatively small, ranging in size from 18 to 34 μm in diameter.
They appear golden brown, and appear in clusters.
  Morphology is highly variable, but does not appear to vary significantly between locations.
One culture may contain flat or round individual cells.
 Molecular techniques for identification (including quantitative PCR) are preferred over traditional microscope fixing, which may lyse the cells.
H. akashiwo cells are relatively small, ranging in size from 18 to 34 μm in diameter. They appear golden brown, and appear in clusters.   Morphology is highly variable, but does not appear to vary significantly between locations. One culture may contain flat or round individual cells.  Molecular techniques for identification (including quantitative PCR) are preferred over traditional microscope fixing, which may lyse the cells.
Heterosigma akashiwo