What are pseudopods and what are their functions?
Also known as pseudopodia (singular noun: pseudopodium), pseudopods are temporary extensions of the cytoplasm (also referred to as false feet) used for locomotion and feeling. They can be found in all sarcodines as well as a number of flagellate protozoa that either exist as parasites or as free living organisms.
How are the different types of pseudopodia classified?
Different types of pseudopodia can be classified by their distinct appearances. Lamellipodia are broad and thin. Filopodia are slender, thread-like, and are supported largely by microfilaments.
Who was the first person to describe pseudopoda?
Pseudopoda is a genus of Asian huntsman spiders that was first described by Peter Jäger in 2000. ^ a b “Gen. Pseudopoda Jäger, 2000”.
How are pseudopods and lamellipodia alike and different?
Pseudopods are used for motility and ingestion. They are often found in amoebas. Different types of pseudopodia can be classified by their distinct appearances. Lamellipodia are broad and thin.
What makes up the microtubules of a pseudopod?
In these organisms, reticulopodia are involved in feeding and locomotion. Like axopodia, reticulopodia are also composed of microtubules and cytoplasm. Here, microtubules that make up the pseudopods consist of a unique type of tubulin known as Type 2 beta-tubulin.
What happens to the pseudopodial trunk as it grows?
As the amount of cytoplasm in the structure increases, the pseudopodial trunk, known as peduncle, becomes thicker and branches to form new pseudopods. While these pseudopods grow and anastomose (link together), they form a network that resembles web-like threads.
How are the filaments of a pseudopod aligned?
Here, the filaments are tightly packed together in a parallel manner to form the shaft of the pseudopod. Within the filopodia, the filaments overlap and are aligned in uniform polarity; where the barbed end of the filament is oriented towards the filopodial tip of the structure.