Characteristics of Amoeba

Characteristics of Amoeba

• Amoeba is a unicellular organism found in stagnant water, such as shallow ponds and pools.
• It measures approximately 0.25mm in size and has an irregular shape.

Cellular Structure

• The cell membrane plays a crucial role in the movement of molecules and protects the cytoplasm.
• The cytoplasm is divided into two parts: ectoplasm (outer, clear, and transparent) and endoplasm (inner, more granular).
• The cytoplasm contains various organelles, including:
  • Nucleus
  • Food vacuoles
  • Mitochondria
  • Lysosomes
  • Fat droplets
  • Contractile vacuole

Movement

• Amoeba moves using pseudopodia, also known as false feet.

Volvox

• Volvox is a polyphyletic genus of chlorophyte green algae in the family Volvocaceae.
• Forms spherical colonies of up to 50,000 cells.
• Lives in a variety of freshwater habitats.

History of Volvox

• First reported by Antonie Van Leeuwen Hoek in 1700.

Volvox Cell Structure

• Each cell has two flagella.
• Each cell has a contractile vacuole.
• Each cell has an eyespot.
• Each cell has a chloroplast.
• Each cell has a nucleus.

Volvox Colony Characteristics

• Volvox cells live together in a colony.
• Each cell has two flagella that beat together to roll the body in water.
• Volvox cells have chlorophyll and make their own food by photosynthesis.
• Plays an important role in many aquatic ecosystems.
• Not harmful to humans because they do not produce any toxic substance.