Some reported to be synonymous to Gymnodinium mikioto Miyake et Kominami ex Oda 1935. However, the one in Hong Kong and the South China Sea is distinguished by its bigger size and distinct displacement in lobes.
Morphological Characteristics :
Spirally swim; normally in ovum or elliptic shape, easily change its shape. Very obvious girdle, separating the apical and antapical parts of the body. Sulcus extended to the apical cone. Antapical side in two lobes. Flagella surround the girdle, protruded at the crossing point of longitudinal furrow and girdle. Nucleus in ball shape with numerous chloroplasts around.
Size of Specimen :
25-40 mm (L), 20-65 mm (W)
Distribution :
Mainly distributed at sheltered or coastal waters. Caused red tides in the western waters of Japan, Mexico and Florida of USA. Appeared in Daya Bay and Dapeng Bay. However, has yet caused red tide in the South China Sea.
Major Limiting Factors :
Low salinity and warm temperature. Sometimes caused red tides at water fronts and convergences.
Toxicity : DSP and NSP related. Numerous toxicity reports in Florida, USA.
