Flagellates

Overview

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Flagellates are microscopic, unicellular protists that are usually colorless or green. They are characterized by having one or more flagella, which is a hair-like whip organelle. There are many different types of flagellates, and they all have different lifestyles. Some are make up colonies and others live as single cells.

Environment

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Flagellates can be found in ponds, lagoons, and even shallow puddles. Wherever there are large amounts of soluble food, flagellates are there.

Examples

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Euglena

Cell Structure

Like all Flagellates, Euglena have a flagellum. They are green because they have chloroplasts, which are organelles that aid in photosynthesis and contain chlorophyll. They have a plasma membrane, which contains their cytoplasm and other organelles. A contractile vacuole removes excess water from the cell, and a reservoir located near the flagellum where the excess water is expelled. They also have a red eye spot, called a stigma, which is light sensitive and helps to guide their movement.

Life Stages

Volvox

Cell Structure

References

[1] Bailey, Regina. “Eugena Cells.” ThoughtCo, 26 Jan. 2018, www.thoughtco.com/about-euglena-cells-4099133. [2] "Flagellates.” Environmental Leverage, 2003, www.environmentalleverage.com/Flagellates.htm. Palande, Leena. “Volvox Facts.” Biology Wise, biologywise.com/volvox-facts.