Euchlanis

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Euchlanis
Euchlanis dilatata
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Rotifera
Class: Monogononta
Order: Ploima
Family: Euchlanidae
Genus: Euchlanis
Ehrenberg, 1830
Species

See text.

Synonyms[1]
  • Dapidia Gosse, 1887
  • Enchlanis Braum, 1884

Euchlanis is a genus of rotifers belonging to the family Euchlanidae.[1]

Sometimes alternatively referred to as wheel animalcules, rotifers feature a characteristic circular arrangement of cilia at their front ends that is reminiscent of a turning wheel when they are in motion.[2] The genus has a cosmopolitan distribution.[1]

Description[edit]

Rotifers have a characteristic circular arrangement of cilia at their front ends. These cilia are used to bring food particles, including bacteria, debris and small protozoans, towards the mouth.[2] A mastax, a jaw-like structure, grinds the food as it enters the stomach. Excretory structures known as flame cells create a current that drains them into the intestines or the bladder.[2] They have transparent bodies and two strong structures that are used for swimming. They are sheathed in a glassy shell secreted by their outer skin.[2]

Species[edit]

The following species are accepted:[1]

References[edit]

  1. ^ a b c d "Euchlanis Ehrenberg, 1830". www.gbif.org. Retrieved 9 March 2021.
  2. ^ a b c d "Molecular Expressions Microscopy Primer: Specialized Microscopy Techniques - Differential Interference Contrast Image Gallery - Euchlanis Rotifer". micro.magnet.fsu.edu. Retrieved 2021-03-18.