OPALINIDAE Meaning and
Definition
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Opalinidae is a taxonomic family of protists belonging to the phylum Apicomplexa. These organisms are microscopic and primarily live as commensal or parasitic inhabitants of the intestines of various vertebrates, including fish, amphibians, reptiles, and birds. They are characterized by their unique morphology and complex life cycle.
Members of the Opalinidae family are characterized by their elongated, vermiform body shape, which is slightly curved. They possess multiple nuclei distributed throughout their cytoplasm. Unlike other apicomplexans, they lack an apical complex, a distinctive structure found in the cells of many other parasitic protists. They possess cilia at the anterior end, which they use for swimming and locomotion.
The life cycle of Opalinidae species begins with the ingestion of cysts containing infective forms by the host animal. Within the host's gut, the cysts release trophozoite stages, which multiply asexually by binary fission. These trophozoites each contain multiple nuclei. Once they reach maturity, they undergo multiple divisions to produce new cysts that are excreted by the host in feces, completing the life cycle.
Opalinidae organisms are generally considered commensals, meaning they benefit from their association with the host without causing significant harm. However, in some cases, they can become pathogenic and contribute to disease in the host, particularly when the host's immune system is compromised.
Overall, Opalinidae is a family of unique, microscopic protists that inhabit the intestines of various vertebrates, exhibiting a complex life cycle and sometimes acting as commensals or pathogens.
Common Misspellings for OPALINIDAE
- ipalinidae
- kpalinidae
- lpalinidae
- ppalinidae
- 0palinidae
- 9palinidae
- ooalinidae
- olalinidae
- o0alinidae
- opzlinidae
- opslinidae
- opwlinidae
- opqlinidae
- opakinidae
- opapinidae
- opaoinidae
- opalunidae
- opaljnidae
- opalknidae
- opalonidae
Etymology of OPALINIDAE
The word "Opalinidae" is derived from the biological classification of a group of single-celled organisms called Opalinids. The suffix "-idae" in biological nomenclature signifies a family, referring to a group of organisms that share common characteristics and are classified together.
The term "Opalin" is derived from the Greek word "ópalos", meaning "opal" or "precious stone". This name was chosen due to the opalescent appearance exhibited by some species of Opalinids. Hence, the word "Opalinidae" denotes the family name of this group of organisms.
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