Parvilucifera

Parvilucifera is a genus of microscopic, single-celled protists known as dinoflagellates, which are often planktonic organisms in aquatic environments. They are notable for being parasitic, meaning they infect and live inside other tiny aquatic organisms called dinoflagellates. Parvilucifera invades its host, multiplies, and eventually causes the host to burst, releasing new parasites to continue the cycle. These parasitic interactions help control populations of certain dinoflagellates, some of which can produce toxins harmful to marine life and humans. Overall, Parvilucifera plays a role in maintaining ecological balance within marine and freshwater ecosystems.