Labyrinthulomycetes

The Labyrinthulomycetes (ICBN) or Labyrinthulea (ICZN), are a class of protists that produce a network of filaments or tubes, which serve as tracks for the cells to glide along and absorb nutrients for them. There are two main groups, the labyrinthulids (or slime nets) and thraustochytrids. They are mostly marine, commonly found as parasites on alga and seagrass or as decomposers on dead plant material. They also include some parasites of marine invertebrates.