Cercomonas

/ˌsɜːrkoʊˈmoʊnəs/ noun

Definition

A genus of single-celled flagellate protozoans (microscopic organisms with whip-like tails) found in water and soil environments.

Etymology

From Greek 'kerkos' (tail) + 'monas' (unit/being), literally 'tail-being,' named for the distinctive tail-like appendage used for movement.

Kelly Says

These microscopic creatures have been evolving in puddles for hundreds of millions of years—they're so simple yet so successful that scientists study them to understand how life itself began.

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