Ameboid
Ameboid
Ameboid (pronunciation: /əˈmiːbɔɪd/) is a term used to describe cells or organisms which have the ability to alter their shape, primarily by extending and retracting pseudopods. The term is derived from the genus Amoeba, which possesses this characteristic.
Etymology
The term "ameboid" is derived from the Greek word "amoibe", meaning change. It was first used in the late 19th century to describe the changing shape of certain single-celled organisms.
Characteristics
Ameboid cells or organisms, such as the Amoeba, are able to change their shape due to the flexibility of their cell membrane and the movement of their cytoplasm. This allows them to move and consume food by phagocytosis.
Types
There are several types of ameboid organisms, including:
- Amoeba proteus, a common species found in freshwater environments.
- Entamoeba histolytica, a parasitic species that can cause amoebiasis in humans.
- Dictyostelium discoideum, a species used as a model organism in molecular biology and genetics.
Related Terms
- Pseudopod: Temporary projections of the cell, used in locomotion and feeding.
- Phagocytosis: The process by which a cell engulfs a solid particle to form an internal compartment known as a phagosome.
- Amoebiasis: An infection caused by any of the amoebae of the Entamoeba group.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Ameboid
- Wikipedia's article - Ameboid
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