Euchlanis | |
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Euchlanis dilatata | |
Scientific classification
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Domain: | Eukaryota |
Kingdom: | Animalia |
Phylum: | Rotifera |
Class: | Monogononta |
Order: | Ploima |
Family: | Euchlanidae |
Genus: |
Euchlanis Ehrenberg, 1830 |
Species | |
See text. | |
Synonyms [1] | |
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Euchlanis is a genus of rotifers belonging to the family Euchlanidae. [1]
Sometimes alternatively referred to as wheel animalcules, rotifers feature a characteristic circular arrangement of cilia at their front ends that is reminiscent of a turning wheel when they are in motion. [2] The genus has a cosmopolitan distribution. [1]
Rotifers have a characteristic circular arrangement of cilia at their front ends. These cilia are used to bring food particles, including bacteria, debris and small protozoans, towards the mouth. [2] A mastax, a jaw-like structure, grinds the food as it enters the stomach. Excretory structures known as flame cells create a current that drains them into the intestines or the bladder. [2] They have transparent bodies and two strong structures that are used for swimming. They are sheathed in a glassy shell secreted by their outer skin. [2]
The following species are accepted: [1]