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Name derivation:

"Oblong” or “Oval," -- Paramekes (Greek)

 

Classification:

Order Peniculida; Family Parameciidae

 

Morphology:

Asymmetrically oblong ‘shoe shape’ unicells 50 – 350 μm long, with a prominent oral groove.  Entire cell is covered with cilia.  Two contractile vacuoles are usually evident, with short radiating canals.

Similar genera:

Paramecium can be separated from Blepharisma that usually contains a pink pigment ‘Blepharismin’ in granules.

 

Importance:

Habitat:

References: