The Diagram of Euglena shows its unique structure including flagellum, stigma, chloroplast, etc clearly. Euglena is a genus of algae. It has the characteristics of both plants and animals. The diagram of Euglena class 11 is an important topic in the biology syllabus. In this article, we are going to discuss and examine the diagram of euglena in detail.
The well-labeled diagram of Euglena cell is given below:
Diagram of Euglena
Table of Content
Classification of Euglena
Here is the biological classification of Euglena as mentioned below:
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Protista |
| Superphylum | Discoba |
| Phylum | Euglenozoa |
| Class | Euglenoidea |
| Order | Euglenales |
| Family | Euglenaceae |
| Genus | Euglena |
What is Euglena?
Euglena is a genus of unicellular microorganisms that have both plant and animal characteristics. Euglena reproduce asexually through binary fission. Euglena is like protozoans only exception is that it has chloroplasts like plants. It lives freely in freshwater ponds, ditches, or damp soil.
Structure of Euglena
The diagram of Euglena helps in understanding its structure clearly. The structure of the Euglena is discussed here in brief:
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Spindle-shaped Body
- Euglena has a distinctive spindle-shaped body that helps in movement in aquatic environments.
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Flagellum
- With a whip-like tail known as the flagellum, Euglena propels itself through water.
- Flagellum movement helps Euglena advance by waving back and forth.
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Stigma
- Positioned at the base of the flagellum, the stigma or eyespot detects light, helping Euglena in locating light sources.
- Light sensitivity helps Euglena in moving towards light for photosynthesis.
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Pellicle
- The pellicle, a protein-based layer surrounding the cell provides structural support and maintains Euglena’s shape.
- Enhances flexibility and strength allowing Euglena to adjust its body shape.
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Nucleus
- Euglena’s nucleus, situated in the center, governs cell actions and contains genetic material.
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Chloroplasts
- Chloroplasts convert light into energy for photosynthesis that makes it self-sufficient.
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Contractile Vacuole
- Euglena’s contractile vacuole regulates internal water levels preventing cell bursting through osmosis.
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Stored Carbohydrates
- Carbohydrate reserves serve as energy sources during periods of insufficient sunlight.
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Photoreceptor
- The photoreceptor detects light guiding Euglena towards light sources for photosynthesis.
Conclusion – Diagram of Euglena
In conclusion, understanding the labelled diagram of Euglena helps in learning about their structure and characteristics. Euglena is a genus of unicellular microorganisms that have both plant and animal characteristics. Euglena reproduces asexually through binary fission. Euglena is important to study because it could be an example of a very old tiny creature that plants and animals came from.
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FAQs – Diagram of Euglena
What is the Structure of the Euglena?
The Euglena has a spindle-shaped body with a pellicle for support, a single nucleus, chloroplasts for photosynthesis, and a red eyespot for light detection.
What is Euglena Shaped like?
Euglena are characterized by an elongated cell with one nucleus, numerous chloroplasts, a contractile vacuole and an eyespot.
Where do the Flagella Arise from in the Euglena?
Flagella arise from a small reservoir at the anterior end of Euglena called the reservoir or flagellar pocket, which connects to the interior of the cell.
Is Euglena Plant or Animal?
Euglena is neither a plant nor an animal; it is a single-celled organism classified as a protist.
What is the Structure of the Flagella in the Euglena?
The flagella of Euglena are long, hair-like structures composed of microtubules arranged in a 9+2 pattern, with a thin, flexible membrane covering.
Is Flagella the Locomotory Organ of Euglena?
Yes, the flagella is the locomotory organ of Euglena. It helps it to move through water by beating in a whip-like motion.
What is the Function of Short Flagella in Euglena?
Short flagella in Euglena help in sensing the environment and directing the organism’s movement.
What is the Eyespot of the Euglena?
The eyespot of the Euglena is a light-sensitive organelle that helps the organism detect light and move towards it for photosynthesis, helping in its survival and navigation in aquatic environments.