 It has been suggested that the hydrodynamic properties of lists are a reason that cells maintain contact after cell division.As division leads to initially underdeveloped lists, by remaining together, the potential negative effects of lacking lists on stability and nutrition (assuming that is their normal function) could be reduced as they develop.Like other dinoflagellate genera, "Ornithocercus" has been found to show phased cell division (specific dividing times for species throughout the day).