Ornithocercus

Ornithocercus is a genus of planktonic dinoflagellate that is known for its complex morphology that features considerable lists growing from its thecal plates, giving an attractive appearance. Discovered in 1883, this genus has a small number of species currently categorized but is widespread in tropical and sub-tropical oceans. The genus is marked by exosymbiotic bacteria gardens under its lists, the inter-organismal dynamics of which are a current field of research. As they reside only in warm water, the genus has been used as a proxy for climate change and has potential to be an indicator species for environmental change if found in novel environments.

== History of knowledge == left|thumb|255x255px|Ornithocercus Magnificus: From the original 1867 species description “…Ornithocercus, [so] strange, even the most sober researcher will have [to give] some admiration … Ornithocercus magnificus, one of the most wonderful and strangest animal forms that ever happened to me” – Friedich Stein 1883 The genus Ornithocercus was first described in 1883 by German entomologist and zoologist Samuel Friedrich Nathaniel Ritter von Stein. He coined the genus with originally only one species: the holotype Ornithocercus magnificus. He made his observations in the Atlantic Ocean and named the organism with regards to the wonder its form inspired in him.