CYTOPHARYNX Meaning and
Definition
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The term "cytopharynx" refers to a specialized structure found in certain types of single-celled organisms, such as protozoans and certain algae. It is an important part of their feeding mechanism by which they ingest food particles.
Specifically, the cytopharynx is a tubular or funnel-shaped structure located in the cell membrane of these organisms, particularly in ciliates and flagellates. It serves as a temporary food canal or feeding tube that extends from the cell surface into the interior of the cell.
During feeding, the organism extends the cytopharynx out of the cell and into the surrounding environment. It then uses specialized cilia or flagella to create a water current that draws in food particles or other necessary nutrients. The cytopharynx acts as a conduit, allowing these particles to be transported into the cell for further processing and digestion.
After the food particles are ingested, the cytopharynx contracts and retracts back into the cell, carrying the food along with it. Once inside the cell, the food is typically enclosed in a food vacuole or food vesicle, where it can be broken down by enzymes and digested.
Overall, the cytopharynx is a crucial structure in the feeding process of certain single-celled organisms, allowing them to obtain nutrients from their environment and sustain their cellular functions.
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A funnel shaped pit through which food particles enter the body in infusoria and certain other forms of protozoa.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CYTOPHARYNX
- xytopharynx
- vytopharynx
- fytopharynx
- dytopharynx
- cttopharynx
- cgtopharynx
- chtopharynx
- cutopharynx
- c7topharynx
- c6topharynx
- cyropharynx
- cyfopharynx
- cygopharynx
- cyyopharynx
- cy6opharynx
- cy5opharynx
- cytipharynx
- cytkpharynx
- cytlpharynx
- cytppharynx
Etymology of CYTOPHARYNX
The word "cytopharynx" has its roots in two Greek terms: "cyto" (meaning "cell") and "pharynx" (meaning "throat").
The term "cyto-" is derived from the Greek word "kutos", meaning "hollow vessel" or "container". When used as a prefix, "cyto-" refers to cells or cellular structures.
The term "pharynx" comes from the Greek word "pharynx", which means "throat" or "gullet". The pharynx is a muscular tube-like structure that connects the nasal and oral cavities to the esophagus.
Therefore, combining "cyto-" and "-pharynx" creates the word "cytopharynx", which refers to the part of certain organisms (such as ciliates) that acts as a passage or structure involved in the intake and processing of food particles.
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