Comparisons of ciliary (flagellar) apparatus of ciliates

 

  • The following diagrams show various kinetid structure patterns of the somatic cortex of ciliates. Diagrams were adapted from D.H. Lynn (1991) The implications of recent descriptions of kinetid structure to the systematics of the ciliated protists. Protoplasma 164: 123-142.

     

    This image shows the basic elements associated with most ciliate kinetids. There are two basal bodies. The basal bodies are being viewed from tip to base. The anterior of the cell is towards the top of the picture. Three primary elements arise from the pair of basal bodies. A striated kinetodesmal fibre extends from the left and is directed to the front of the cell. A postciliary root extends to the rear and left from the posterior basal body and a transverse root extends from the anterior right margin of the anterior basal body.

    There may be many variations on this basic theme as well as additional elements.

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

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