UNIFLAGELLATE Meaning and
Definition
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Uniflagellate is an adjective that refers to an organism or cell possessing a single flagellum. A flagellum is a long, whip-like appendage that is involved in the locomotion of certain microorganisms. The term "uniflagellate" specifically indicates that only one flagellum is present, as opposed to multiple or none at all.
Uniflagellate organisms can belong to various taxonomic groups, including bacteria, protists, and some types of algae. These organisms typically use their flagella to move through their aqueous environments, utilizing a whipping motion that propels them forward. The flagellum itself is composed of a structure called the axoneme, which contains microtubules responsible for the movement.
Uniflagellate cells can exhibit diverse functionalities. In some species, the flagellum is primarily employed for locomotion and facilitating movement towards light or chemical signals. In others, the flagellum may have additional roles, such as sensory perception or the generation of feeding currents.
The presence of a single flagellum offers certain advantages to unicellular organisms. It allows for a streamlined and efficient movement, reducing the energy expenditure required for locomotion. Additionally, the availability of a single flagellum promotes a unidirectional movement, improving the organism's ability to navigate and respond to its environment.
Overall, the term "uniflagellate" describes an organism or cell that possesses a lone flagellum, highlighting its importance in their locomotion and potentially other functions.
Common Misspellings for UNIFLAGELLATE
- yniflagellate
- hniflagellate
- jniflagellate
- iniflagellate
- 8niflagellate
- 7niflagellate
- ubiflagellate
- umiflagellate
- ujiflagellate
- uhiflagellate
- unuflagellate
- unjflagellate
- unkflagellate
- unoflagellate
- un9flagellate
- un8flagellate
- unidlagellate
- uniclagellate
- univlagellate
- uniglagellate
Etymology of UNIFLAGELLATE
The word "uniflagellate" is derived from two components: "uni-" meaning one or single, and "flagellate" which comes from the Latin word "flagellatus", meaning to whip or lash. In biological terminology, "flagella" refers to whip-like appendages that some cells use for movement. Thus, "uniflagellate" describes a single-celled organism or a cell that possesses a single flagellum for locomotion.
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