Halteria grandinella

oligotrich

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June 29, 2026

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Halteria grandinella is a type of protozoan belonging to the order Oligotrichida, commonly found in freshwater environments. These organisms are also known as oligotrichs.1

Oligotrichs are characterized by their spherical to pear-shaped bodies and cilia, which are small, hair-like projections. In many species, these cilia are fused into bristle-like structures called cirri, which aid in locomotion. Halteria grandinella is a representative species, notable for its seven groups of three cirri that help it "bounce" through the water. Some oligotrichs also possess a distinct band of cilia around their mouth area that helps them move. The term "oligotrich" itself refers to a suborder of ciliated protozoans with reduced body ciliation, often limited to a few large bristles.12

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oligotrich
The species Halteria grandinella is a common freshwater representative of the order. Small and spherical, it has seven groups of three cirri set in small grooves along the middle of the cell. The action of the cirri causes the cell to bounce through the water.
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The species Halteria grandinella is a common freshwater representative of the order. Small and spherical, it has seven groups of three cirri set in small grooves along the middle of the cell. The action of the cirri causes the cell to bounce through the water.
Read More