Tintinnidium Kent 1881

Tintinnidium, an oligotrich ciliate. The cell usually resides in an irregular gelatinous lorica to which particles adhere. The lorica is usually attached to the substrate. The organisms may be found free-swimming. When found in a lorica the cell is trumpet-shaped with a thin drawn out posterior that adheres to the base of the lorica. When free-swimming, the posterior of the cell becomes broadly rounded. A prominent adoral zone of membranelles is seen. The macronucleus is rounded. From a rainwater holding pond near Boise, Idaho. Bright field illumination.

Tintinnidium, an oligotrich ciliate. Although often found residing in a gelatinous lorica with attached particles, this is a liberated free-swimming organism. Compared with loricate organisms, the free-swimming individuals have a broadly rounded posterior. The rounded macronucleus is seen on the organism's right. Ingested diatoms are visible. From a rainwater holding pond near Boise, Idaho. Oblique illumination.