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Scientific classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Chromalveolata
Phylum: Heterokontophyta
Class: Actinochrysophyceae


The axodines are a group of unicellular heterokont algae, previously classified in the Chrysophyceae.[1]

They include pedinellids, silicoflagellates, and Rhizochromulinales.[2]

Other terms include "Actinochrysophyceae" and "Dictyochophyceae".[2]


They characteristically have a single emergent flagellum, which lacks the root structure found in related groups, and is extended into a wing-like form supported by an internal rod. They also have tentacles or axopods supported by triads of microtubules, arising from the surface of the nucleus.

Classification and history[edit]

Order Dictyochales[edit]

Main article: Dictyochales

The most notable group is the silicoflagellates, marine plankton that form siliceous skeletons and are well known as fossils.

Order Pedinellales[edit]

Main article: Pedinellales

Most other axodines form a group variously called the pedinellids or actinodines.

Order Rhizochromulinales[edit]

In addition to the silicoflagellates and actinodines, the marine amoeboid Rhizochromulina marina is included here based on the structure of its zoospores. It is considered closer to the latter group than the former.