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