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desmid

Syllabification: (des·mid)

Pronunciation: /ˈdezmid/

Definition of desmid

noun

Biology

a single-celled, freshwater alga that appears to be composed of two rigid cells with a shared nucleus. The presence of desmids is usually an indicator of unpolluted water.
- Family Desmidiaceae, division Chlorophyta (or phylum Gamophyta, kingdom Protista)

Origin:

mid 19th century: from modern Latin Desmidium (genus name), from Greek desmos 'band, chain' (because the algae are often found united in chains or masses)