Flagellum
Flagellum
Flagellum (pronunciation: /fləˈdʒɛləm/) is a whip-like structure that allows a cell to move. They are found in all three domains of the cellular world: Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya.
Etymology
The term "flagellum" comes from the Latin word 'flagellum', meaning "whip".
Function
A flagellum is used by an organism to propel itself. It is a long, slender extension of the cell surface that rotates in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. The rotation propels the organism through its environment. Flagella are used by protozoa, bacteria, sperm cells, and various other microscopic organisms to move around.
Structure
The structure of a flagellum is complex. It consists of a filament, a hook, and a basal body. The filament is the whip-like structure that extends from the cell. The hook connects the filament to the basal body, which is embedded in the cell membrane. The basal body acts as a motor, powering the rotation of the filament.
Related Terms
- Cilium - A short, hair-like structure that is used by cells to move or to move substances over their surfaces.
- Pseudopod - A temporary protrusion of the surface of an amoeboid cell for movement and feeding.
- Axoneme - The central shaft of a cilium or flagellum, containing microtubules.
- Undulipodium - A term sometimes used to refer to eukaryotic cilia and flagella.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Flagellum
- Wikipedia's article - Flagellum
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