portrait

Description :

Euglena mutabilis is a worm like gliding Euglena which rarely swims. Sizes vary from 53-206 microns long, with 10 or more (up to 100), disk-shaped, plastids situated just below surface. It is distinguished from another worm like species (E. mutabilis) by the much larger number of plastids. The cells contain small rod and oval-shaped paramylon bodies scattered throughout the cytoplasm. Anterior flagellum usually about a quarter of the cell length, but may not be emergent, or be a short stump, or up to 0.5 the cell length. There are two flagella inserting in the flagellar pocket which can be seen behind the red stigma or eyespot. May produce cysts. The large tapioca-like nucleus is located just behind the mid line. Surface striations not visible. Metabolic (can squirm). Differential, interference contrast.