Abstract

The genus Tetrahymena is defined on the basis of a four-part oral structure composed of an undulating membrane and three membranelles. It is a monophyletic genus with 41 named species and numerous unnamed species, many of which are morphologically indistinguishable. Nuclear small subunit rRNA and mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 sequences indicate two major clades, a "borealis" clade of less closely related species and an "australis" clade of more closely related species that correlate to differences in mating-type determination and frequency of amicronucleates. Members of both clades show convergence for histophagy (primarily facultative), macrostome transformation, and (rare) cyst formation. Life cycle parameters of species are presented and problematic species discussed.

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Publisher Full Text

Authors

Lynn DH, Doerder FP

Institution

Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, 6270 University Blvd., Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z4.

Source

Methods in cell biology 109: 2012 pg 9-27

MeSH

Cell Nucleus
Cyclooxygenase 1
Evolution, Molecular
Genes, Mitochondrial
Genes, Protozoan
Genes, rRNA
Genetic Variation
Mitochondria
Phylogeny
Reproduction
Ribosome Subunits, Small, Eukaryotic
Tetrahymena

Pub Type(s)

Journal Article
Review

Language

eng

PubMed ID

22444141