Ciliate
Ciliate
Ciliate (/ˈsɪli.eɪt/; from Latin cilia, meaning "eyelash") is a type of single-celled eukaryotic organism within the phylum Ciliophora. They are characterized by the presence of hair-like organelles called cilia, which are identical in structure to eukaryotic flagella, but are in general shorter and present in much larger numbers, with a different undulating pattern than flagella.
Etymology
The term "ciliate" is derived from Latin cilia, meaning "eyelash". This is a reference to the hair-like structures, or cilia, that cover the body of these organisms and are used for movement and feeding.
Characteristics
Ciliates are complex and highly specialized cells, characterized by several unique features. They have two types of nuclei: a large macronucleus and one or more small micronuclei. The macronucleus controls the non-reproductive cell functions, while the micronucleus is responsible for genetic and sexual functions.
Ciliates move by using their cilia, which beat in coordinated waves. They can also use their cilia to gather food, which is then ingested through a specialized structure called the cytostome.
Classification
Ciliates are classified within the phylum Ciliophora, which is divided into several classes, including Spirotrichea, Oligohymenophorea, and Litostomatea. These classes are further divided into orders, families, genera, and species.
Related Terms
- Eukaryote
- Cilia
- Eukaryotic flagellum
- Macronucleus
- Micronucleus
- Cytostome
- Spirotrichea
- Oligohymenophorea
- Litostomatea
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Ciliate
- Wikipedia's article - Ciliate
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