Synaptonemal Complexes in Red Algae1,2

SUMMARY The presence of synaptonemal complexes in the nuclei of young tetraspore mother cells is described for the first time in the red algae. Synaptonemal complexes were found in Janczewskia gardneri Setchell, Levringiella gardneri Setchell, Gonimophyllum skottsbergii Setchell, and Polycoryne gardneri Setchell. The synaptonemal complexes consist of 2 lateral, dark‐staining elements from which small fibrils extend to form a less densely staining central element. With minor variations, the dimensions and structure of these synaptonemal complexes correspond to those found in other organisms.