Protist lab with Carolann
The second specimen we examined was the organism "Paramecium". A specimen sample was taken using the same previous lab steps used for Euglena. When a sample of water with paramecium was put on an individual slide, the slide was put under the microscope for inspection. Paramecium can be best described as a uni-cellular ciliate protozoa. That simply states that it is a one cell organism protist with cilia. Cilia are hairlike organelles which fully cover the organism, that are used like little oars to help maneuver the organism. The viking ship below is similar in concept how the paramecium uses its hair for its maneuverability. Paramecium is shaped like a slipper, yes a slipper, or elongated like a cigar. Paramecium are mainly classified as heterotrophs, feeding on bacteria and or other small organisms. Paramecium reproduce asexually, by a method called binary fission. Paramecium have two nucleui, a macronucleus and a micronucleus. When a paramecium cell splits, the macronucleus splits by mitosis, and the micronuclues splits by meiosis. When the cell then divides each new cell gets a copy of the macro and micronucleus material. Paramecium also has the ability to self-reproduce, it will fertilize itself by conjugation. Conjugation occurs when compatible mating types come together and exchange genetic material. When this happens the micronuclei of each cell will split by meiosis and the haploid gametes, sex cells, pass from each cell to the other one. When the two new sex cells, gametes, meet and form together; they make a new diploid micronuclei. When the new diploid micronuclei is formed the old macronuclei becomes destroyed and new macronuclei will then develop from the micronuclei.
Interesting stuff don't you think !!!! Follow us as we explore more about the little creatures in the microbe world.
Interesting stuff don't you think !!!! Follow us as we explore more about the little creatures in the microbe world.
Observe the paramecium in the video below. Your can also check further video of Parameciums and the Amoeba.
Reference
Ronan, Jacqui, retrieved from website February 18, 2013, http://postitartist.blogspot.com/2007/10/parry-paramecium.html
Retrived from website February 18, 2013, http://les.canisius.nl/web/C3/PIM/HistoryBritain/vikingschip.html
Retrived from website February 18, 2013, http://les.canisius.nl/web/C3/PIM/HistoryBritain/vikingschip.html