How does paramecium move?

Paramecium cell moves using the tiny hair-like structures called cilia

Paramecium cell moves and collects food using the tiny hair-like structures called cilia. These cilia are in constant motion and help paramecium move around. Paramecium can swim as fast as four times its body length per second. Paramecium can also change its direction by beating the cilia in a reverse way.

Paramecium Cell Structure

[In this figure] The anatomy of a Paramecium cell.


Stroke pattern of cilia on a Paramecium

[In this figure] Stroke pattern of cilia on a Paramecium.
The movement of cilia can be divided into Effective (forward) and Recovery (backward) stroke. Two kinds of strokes alternately repeat to propel the body of paramecium as we swim in the front crawl style.


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The Structure of Paramecium Cell

The Structure of Paramecium Cell

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