Heterotrichales

/ˌhɛtəroʊtrɪˈkeɪliz/ noun

Definition

An order of ciliated protozoans that includes heterotrichs and other similar single-celled organisms with different types of cilia.

Etymology

From 'heterotricha' with the taxonomic suffix '-ales' (indicating an order), following Linnaean biological classification naming conventions.

Kelly Says

Taxonomic names like this show how scientists organize life: heterotrichales is an order, containing several families, each with different species—it's like the Dewey Decimal System, but for microscopic life!

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