Bio.1.2.3
Explain how specific cell adaptations help cells survive in
particular environments (focus on unicellular organisms).
particular environments (focus on unicellular organisms).
How cell adaptations help unicellular organisms survive
Unicellular organisms are made up of only one cell. There are four main groups of unicellular organisms and these groups are: bacteria, protozoa, unicellular algae, and unicellular fungi. Most most be viewed with a microscope and are sensitive to light and touch. Unicellular organisms can live in very extreme environments such as the bottom of the ocean in steam vents and they've been around for approximately 3.8 billion years.
Shape
They come in three main different shapes: spheres, oblong, or spirals.
Spheres (Unicellular Algae)
The spherical shape helps to keep the organism from drying out.
Oblong (Paramecium)
Being oblong increases the surface area of this organism. Increased surface area can help provide for area for chemical processes such as photosynthesis.
Spirals (Freshwater Algae)
The spiral shaped organisms are able to move more quickly.
Amoeba
Amoebas are able to change their shape.
Locamotion
Not only do they have different shapes, they also have different methods of locomotion. Paramecium, amoeba, and euglena are all examples of unicellular organisms and they all have different methods of locomotion. Let's take a look!
Paramecium
The paramecium is able to move with the help of cilia. Cilia are tiny hair like structures that move the organism. Most organisms that move with cilia are fast! Not only do they move with these hair like structures, they also use them to catch food.
Another special adaptation that parameciums have is called a contractile vacuole. The contractile vacuole assists with homeostasis and pumps liquids into the cell and then releases it on the cells surface.
Amoeba
The amoeba uses pseudopodia to move. Pseudopodia are like false feet that help the amoeba move. As was stated above, these amoebas can change their shape. This is because they extend into these false feet and then the rest of the organism flows after them. It also uses these pseudopodia to catch and engulf food.
Euglena
Euglena move with the use of a flagellum. A flagellum it a whip-like structure that helps the euglena to move. It helps to propel the organism forward.
Another special adaption that euglenas have is a place called the eye spot. This eye spot is a patch that is sensitive to light and allows the organism to determine its surrounding environment and the intensity of the light shining on it.