VORTICELLA Meaning and
Definition
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Vorticella is a noun that refers to a genus of microscopic, bell-shaped, ciliated protozoans that belong to the phylum Ciliophora. These organisms are commonly found in freshwater environments, such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers. Vorticella is characterized by its distinctive shape resembling a tiny, inverted bell attached to a stalk or filament, which allows it to anchor itself to various surfaces.
The bell-shaped structure of vorticella is made up of a contractile, muscular membrane known as the peristome, which is encircled by numerous cilia. These cilia are responsible for generating water currents and facilitating the capture of food particles. Vorticella organisms are holozoic, meaning they obtain nutrition by engulfing and digesting other smaller microorganisms, such as bacteria, that are swept into their bell-shaped structure by the water currents created by the cilia.
Vorticella also possesses a contractile stalk, which allows it to extend or retract its body in response to environmental stimuli or changes in water flow. This stalk is made up of a proteinaceous substance and can be extremely long in some species, acting as an essential mechanism for mobility and attachment.
Due to their unique morphology and fascinating way of feeding, vorticella organisms have caught the attention of researchers and are often studied as model organisms for developmental biology and bioengineering applications. Their intricate structure and behavioral patterns make vorticella a captivating subject for microscopic observation and an essential component of freshwater ecosystems.
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A genus of Infusoria of the order Peritrichida, of bell shape and having a spiral of cilia around the adoral zone; various free species have been found at times in the feces, urine, and mucous discharges.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for VORTICELLA
- corticella
- borticella
- gorticella
- forticella
- virticella
- vkrticella
- vlrticella
- vprticella
- v0rticella
- v9rticella
- voeticella
- vodticella
- vofticella
- votticella
- vo5ticella
- vo4ticella
- vorricella
- vorficella
- vorgicella
Etymology of VORTICELLA
The word "vorticella" has its roots in Latin. It comes from the Latin word "vortex", which means "whirlpool" or "eddy". The suffix "-ella" is a diminutive form in Latin, typically used to indicate a small or young version of something. Thus, "vorticella" can be translated to mean "little whirlpool" or "small eddy". This term was likely chosen due to the organism's distinctive shape and the rotary movement it makes when extended.
Similar spelling words for VORTICELLA
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