Alveolata
Quick Summary
The term "Alveolata" refers to a major group within the eukaryotes, characterized by the presence of alveolar sacs beneath their plasma membrane. These sacs can contain rigid material, giving the cell surface a distinct texture. Alveolata are known for their transverse cell division and possess tubular mitochondrial cristae.1
This group includes several important subgroups:
* Ciliophora: These are ciliated organisms with a unique duplicated flagellar apparatus and a special type of nuclear dimorphism involving a micronucleus and a macronucleus.1
* Dinozoa (dinoflagellates): These are single-celled aquatic organisms with two dissimilar flagella. They are a significant part of phytoplankton and can cause bioluminescence and red tides. Dinoflagellates have unique nuclei and large genomes.2
* Apicomplexa: These are parasitic organisms distinguished by an apical complex used for host colonization.1
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