ISSN:
1550-7408
Source:
Blackwell Publishing Journal Backfiles 1879-2005
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
SYNOPSIS. Specimens of Blepharisma undulans were transferred from young clone cultures to a rotocompressor with 3 mm3 of culture medium. The organisms were slightly compressed and photographed at various intervals with dark field illumination. The sequence of macronuclear and cytoplasmic changes was compared with similarly followed Feulgen preparations.The cycle falls into several phases: (1) an interphase (12–24 hr.) in which the organism increases in size while cytoplasmic and macronuclear appearances remain unchanged. During this phase, the macronucleus consists of 3 to 5 nodes of various sizes connected by strands. (2) a pre-condensation phase (1 hr.) in which a new posterior peristome and cytopyge appear without visible macronuclear change. (3) a condensation phase (10–20 min.) in which the macronuclear nodes coalesce into a round mass without dissolution of the central nodes or strands. (4) a postcondensation phase (1 hr.) characterized by: (a) elongation of the condensed macronucleus into a rod-like shape followed by typical nodal formation; or (b) elongation of the condensed macronucleus into a form resembling the letter “J”, followed by nodal formation, and resulting in a double row of nodes in one daughter and a single row in the other. Separation occurs at this time, initiating the new interphase. The development of the j-form macronucleus. the lack of obliteration of the central nodes, and the characteristic interphase condition distinguish this strain of B. undulans from others described elsewhere.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1550-7408.1959.tb03939.x
