Cytostome

Cytostome is a specialized micro-structure of certain organisms, particularly protozoa, used for feeding. It is a part of the cell mouth through which food is ingested (endocytosis) and is typically found in ciliate and flagellate cells.

Overview

The cytostome or "cell mouth" is a part of the cell's oral apparatus. It is usually associated with cilia which help in the movement of food particles into the cell. The cytostome is often linked to a cytopharynx (cell throat) which leads to the cell's digestive vacuole.

Function

The primary function of the cytostome is to allow the organism to ingest food particles. This is achieved through a process known as phagocytosis, where the cell engulfs a food particle and encloses it in a food vacuole. The food vacuole then fuses with a lysosome, which contains enzymes that break down the food particle.

In Protozoa

In protozoa, the cytostome is often a specialized region of the cell membrane, where endocytosis primarily occurs. It is usually found in the anterior region of the cell and is associated with a variety of structures such as cilia, flagella, or pseudopodia, depending on the species.

See Also

• Endocytosis
• Phagocytosis
• Protozoa
• Cilia
• Flagella
• Pseudopodia

References

Cytostome Resources
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