Ciliophora
Ciliophora
Ciliophora (pronounced: /ˌsɪliːoʊˈfɔːrə/) is a phylum of protists characterized by the presence of hair-like organelles called cilia. The term "Ciliophora" is derived from the Latin words 'cilium' meaning 'eyelash' and 'phora' meaning 'bearing'.
Classification
Ciliophora is classified under the kingdom Protista, and it is one of the most significant groups of protists, containing about 8,000 described species. They are further divided into two classes: Spirotrichea and Oligohymenophorea.
Morphology
Ciliophora are generally larger than most other unicellular organisms. They are characterized by the presence of numerous, short, hair-like extensions of the cell called cilia. The cilia are used for locomotion and feeding.
Reproduction
Ciliophora reproduce asexually, through a process known as binary fission. Some species also reproduce sexually through a process called conjugation.
Habitat
Ciliophora are found in a variety of habitats, including fresh and salt water, soil, and in the bodies of animals. Some species are parasitic, causing diseases in humans and other animals.
Related Terms
- Protista: The kingdom to which Ciliophora belongs.
- Cilia: The hair-like structures that characterize Ciliophora.
- Spirotrichea: A class of Ciliophora.
- Oligohymenophorea: Another class of Ciliophora.
- Binary fission: A method of asexual reproduction used by Ciliophora.
- Conjugation: A method of sexual reproduction used by some species of Ciliophora.
- Parasitic: Describes organisms that live on or in a host organism and cause it harm.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Ciliophora
- Wikipedia's article - Ciliophora
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