Tetrahymena thermophila
Classification
Higher order taxa
Eukaryota; Chromalveolata; Ciliophora; Oligohymenophorea; Hymenostomatida; Tetrahymenidae
Species
Tetrahymena thermophila
Description and Significance
Describe the appearance, habitat, etc. of the organism, and why you think it is important.
Genome Structure
T. thermophila contain both a micronucleus and a macronucleus. The micronucleus serves as the germ line, and contains the genetic information passed down from one generation to the next generation. The micronucleus is diploid and contains five pairs of chromosomes. The macronucleus, in contrast, contains the genetic information which is actively transcribed and translated. It contains 225 chromosomes derived from the fragmentation of the 10 micronuclear chromosomes. Both nuclei have been fully sequenced and scaffolds have been constructed [1]. Additionally the mitochondrial genome has been sequenced [2].
Cell Structure, Metabolism and Life Cycle
Interesting features of cell structure; how it gains energy; what important molecules it produces.
Ecology and Pathogenesis
Habitat; symbiosis; biogeochemical significance; contributions to environment.
If relevant, how does this organism cause disease? Human, animal, plant hosts? Virulence factors, as well as patient symptoms.
References
Author
Page authored by Hannah Pak and Luke Pryke, students of Prof. Jay Lennon at Indiana University.
