Paramecium

Paramecium is a genus of unicellular ciliated protozoan and Bacterium under the phylum Ciliophora. They are common in freshwater, brackish, and marine environments and are often very abundant in stagnant basins and ponds.

Overview

Paramecium is a slipper-shaped or oblong organism that is covered in cilia, which are short hair-like structures. The cilia are used in locomotion and feeding. Paramecium is a well-known genus of unicellular organism, commonly studied as a representative of the ciliate group, and has been instrumental in some of the key findings in biology. It is known for its distinctive slipper-like shape and its method of propulsion via the use of cilia.

Anatomy

Paramecium has a complex structure. It has a definite shape and is covered with a flexible, thin and firm membrane known as the pellicle. The pellicle is covered with rows of cilia. The cilia beat in coordinated waves, allowing the Paramecium to move in water.

Reproduction

Paramecium reproduces asexually, by binary fission. During this process, the macronucleus splits by a type of amitosis, and the micronuclei undergo mitosis. The cell then divides transversally, and each new cell obtains a copy of the micronucleus and the macronucleus.

Ecology

Paramecium plays a role in the carbon cycle because they eat bacteria, which are primary producers that turn carbon dioxide into organic material. They are also known to feed on yeasts, algae, and small protozoa. They are preyed upon by other protists such as amoebas and by small aquatic invertebrates.

See also

• Ciliate
• Protozoa
• Binary fission
• Amitosis
• Mitosis

Paramecium Resources
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