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Is Volvox flagellated?

Published in Microbiology 1 min read

Yes, Volvox is flagellated; each individual cell that makes up a Volvox colony possesses two flagella.

Flagella and Volvox Colonies

  • Individual Cells: Each cell within a Volvox colony is similar to a Chlamydomonas cell and is equipped with two flagella.

  • Coordinated Movement: These flagella beat in a coordinated manner, enabling the entire Volvox colony to move through the water. This synchronized beating facilitates both movement and the capture of sunlight for photosynthesis.

  • Photosynthesis: Volvox cells contain chlorophyll and, like plants, produce their own food through photosynthesis.

  • Colony Structure: The Volvox colony is a hollow sphere composed of numerous flagellated cells embedded in a gelatinous matrix.

Therefore, the flagella are crucial to the survival and function of Volvox.

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