Genus Gambierdiscus Adachi and Fukuyo, 1979
Cells armoured. Medium to large species in which cells are anterio-posteriorly compressed and profile is sublenticular. Unique apical pore complex: Po fishhook shaped. The displaced 1' and 6' plates are small and adjacent. Displaced cingulum. Dark brown chloroplasts present. Thick thecae; surface covered with fine round pores. Plate formula: Po, 3', 7'', 6c, 8s, 5''', 1p, 2''''.
Several species toxic. Benthic and epiphytic; can be tychoplanktonic. Found on coral reefs to shallow lagoons an bays of tropical and subtropical regions. Attaches via mucoid strands.
Species included from this genus:
Gambierdiscus belizeanus Faust, 1995
Gambierdiscus toxicus Adachi and Fukuyo, 1979