Description of Bicosoeca

Biflagellated cells enclosed within an organic lorica, usually vase shaped. Solitary of colonial, if colonial may be arborescent or ball-shaped. Lorica may attach directly to substrate or have stalk. Anterior margin of cell raised on one side to form a collar. This forms part of the ingestion area. Cells may retract into their lorica by action of the recurrent flagellum, anterior flagellum coils up. Sometimes and incorrectly spelled Bicoeca. About 40 species, freshwater and marine. Type species: B. lacustris, James-Clark, 1867.