The word "amoeba" is spelled with a combination of vowels and consonants that reflect its pronunciation. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is written as /əˈmiːbə/. The first syllable is represented by the schwa sound /ə/, followed by the long E vowel sound /iː/. The second syllable is composed of the consonant combination /mb/ that represents a nasal bilabial sound followed by a voiced bilabial plosive. The final syllable is again represented by the schwa sound /ə/. Overall, the spelling of "amoeba" accurately reflects its pronunciation, making it easy to read and understand.
An amoeba refers to a microscopic, single-celled organism belonging to the phylum Amoebozoa. It falls under the category of eukaryotes, possessing a well-defined nucleus enclosed within a membrane. These organisms are known for their distinct shapelessness, lacking any permanent cell structure, and typically morphing into various shapes through the use of pseudopodia, or temporary projections of their cell membrane. Amoebas predominantly inhabit freshwater bodies such as ponds, lakes, and streams, although some species are present in soil and brackish water as well.
Amoebas play a crucial role in the ecosystem, serving as decomposers and contributing to the degradation of organic matter. They feed on bacteria, algae, other microscopic organisms, and even detritus by engulfing them through the process of phagocytosis. Being primarily heterotrophic, amoebas obtain nutrients by absorbing dissolved organic compounds through their cell membrane.
Amoebas reproduce through asexual methods such as binary fission, where the parent cell divides into two identical offspring cells. Some species also engage in sexual reproduction, producing cysts or spores that aid in their survival during unfavorable conditions. These remarkable organisms have evolved over billions of years, adapting and thriving in various habitats worldwide.
While some amoebas are harmless and vital for ecological balance, certain species can cause harm to humans and animals. For instance, the amoeba Naegleria fowleri can cause severe brain infection if it enters the body through water exposure. Hence, precautions should be taken when engaging in recreational water activities in warm freshwater environments where such harmful amoebas may proliferate.
A genus of unicellular protozoan organisms of microscopic size, existing in nature in large numbers and many living as parasites; some species are pathogenic for man.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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The word "amoeba" comes from the Greek ἀμοιβή (amoibe), which means "change" or "alternation". The term was introduced by French naturalist Augustin P. G. de Bory in 1822 to categorize a group of now-known unicellular organisms with constantly changing shapes. The Greek word amoibe ultimately derives from the verb ἀμείβω (ameibo), meaning "to change" or "to exchange".