Cilioflagellate

/ˌsɪliəˈflædʒəleɪt/ noun

Definition

A single-celled organism that has both cilia (hair-like organelles) and flagella (whip-like organelles) for movement, mainly found in aquatic environments.

Etymology

From cilium plus flagellate (having flagella). This is the singular form of cilioflagellata, referring to individual organisms with both types of movement structures.

Kelly Says

Some cilioflagellates are mixotrophs—they're not quite plant and not quite animal, but actually do both photosynthesis AND eat other cells, living as hybrid organisms that blur the boundaries of life categories.

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