Alveolate
Alveolate
Alveolate (/ælˈviːəˌleɪt/; from Latin alveolus meaning "small cavity") is a major group of protists, considered a superphylum, that includes a wide variety of microscopic organisms. They are characterized by the presence of alveoli, or small cavities, beneath their cell surfaces.
Etymology
The term Alveolate is derived from the Latin word alveolus, which means "small cavity". This refers to the characteristic alveoli, or small cavities, found beneath the cell surfaces of these organisms.
Characteristics
Alveolates are typically unicellular, and can be either free-living or parasitic. They are distinguished by the presence of alveoli, small cavities enclosed by a single membrane, just beneath their cell surfaces. These alveoli are thought to be involved in several functions, including ion transport and maintaining cell shape.
Classification
Alveolates are classified into three main groups: Ciliates, Dinoflagellates, and Apicomplexans. Each of these groups is distinguished by unique features, but all share the common characteristic of alveoli.
Ciliates
Ciliates are a group of alveolates that are characterized by the presence of hair-like organelles called cilia. These cilia are used for locomotion and feeding.
Dinoflagellates
Dinoflagellates are a group of alveolates that are primarily marine plankton, but they are also common in freshwater habitats. Many dinoflagellates are photosynthetic, but a large number are also mixotrophic, combining photosynthesis with ingestion of prey.
Apicomplexans
Apicomplexans are a group of parasitic alveolates, many of which cause serious diseases in humans and other animals. This group includes the organisms that cause malaria and toxoplasmosis.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Alveolate
- Wikipedia's article - Alveolate
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