Lorica (biology)

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In biology, a lorica is a shell-like protective outer covering, often reinforced with sand grains and other particles that some protozoans and loricifera metazoans secrete. Usually it is tubular or conical in shape, with a loose case that is closed at one end. [1] An example is the protozoan genus Stentor, in which the lorica is trumpet-shaped. In the tintinnids, the lorica is frequently transparent and is used as domicile.[2] Halofolliculina corallasia has a lorica that is attached as an outer structure, and into which it retracts when disturbed.

There are three phases in the formation of lorica: agglomeration in a natural cast; helical extension; and stabilization.[3]

See also

Notes

  1. ^ "lorica (biology) -- Britannica Online Encyclopedia". britannica.com. Retrieved 2009-08-16.
  2. ^ "Mic-UK: TINTINNINAE". www.microscopy-uk.org.uk. Retrieved 2009-08-16.
  3. ^ "Protozoan plankton ecology – Three phases of lorica formation". books.google.com. Retrieved 2009-08-16.
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