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Bifurcate refers to a structure that divides from one branch into two branches. The term is used to describe the branching of the distal raphe fissure of some diatoms.
For example, the distal raphe fissure is bifurcate in the genus Muelleria. Similarly, the distal raphe fissure of many Neidium species possesses an apical flap and appears to bifurcate.