3D Images Of Choanoflagellate Loricae

Main Category: Biology / Biochemistry
Also Included In: Medical Devices / Diagnostics
Article Date: 27 Aug 2008 - 3:00 PDT

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Loricate choanoflagellates are microscopic, aquatic, filter-feeding Protozoa. The tiny cell is housed within a basket-like cage made of silica ribs.

The ribs are produced individually within the cell and stored outside in bundles. When the cell divides, the ribs slide over each other until the exoskeleton is formed. We have developed a computer-graphic model that allows us to re-enact the process of cage assembly.

The benefit of the cage is twofold; it enables the cell to remain freely suspended in the water column and it functions as a chimney in enhancing the flow of water containing food particles over the cell.

Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences

Proceedings B is the Royal Society's flagship biological research journal, dedicated to the rapid publication and broad dissemination of high-quality research papers, reviews and comment and reply papers. The scope of journal is diverse and is especially strong in organismal biology.

Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences