pellicle

(noun)

cuticle, the hard protective outer layer of certain life forms

Related Terms

Examples of pellicle in the following topics:

  • Cell Structure, Metabolism, and Motility

    • In other protists, glassy silica-based shells or pellicles of interlocking protein strips encase the cells.
    • The pellicle functions like a flexible coat of armor, preventing the protist from external damage without compromising its range of motion.

  • Contractile Vacuoles in Microorganisms

    • Structure of Euglena: 1 - Flagellum; 2 - Eye spot / Pigment spot / Stigma; 3 - Photoreceptor; 4 - Short second flagellum; 5 - Reservoir; 6 - Basal body; 7 - Contractile vacuole; 8 - Paramylon granule; 9 - Chloroplasts; 10 - Nucleus; 11 - Nucleolus; 12 - Pellicle

  • Chromalveolata: Alveolates

    • Ciliates also are surrounded by a pellicle, providing protection without compromising agility.