spirotrich

spirotrichA spirotrich of genus (Euplotes).

spirotrich, (class Spirotrichea), any of a group of ciliated protozoans characterized by nonuniform, sparse ciliation and prominent membranelles of fused cilia around the mouth opening. The subclass contains a number of orders. See heterotrich; hypotrich; odontostome; oligotrich; tintinnid.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Amy Tikkanen.
Citation Information
Article Title: spirotrich
Website Name: Encyclopaedia Britannica
Publisher: Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc.
Date Published: 07 August 2009
Access Date: February 22, 2025