Flagellum

Flagellum

Flagellum Definition Flagellums are microscopic organelles that help cells and microorganisms move. In Latin, flagellum means whip, similar to the whipping motion flagella (plural) frequently use for locomotion. In some organisms, specialized flagella function as sensory organelles that detect temperature and pH changes. Function of Flagellum A flagellum is a filamentous protein structure found in … Read more

Oscar Fish

Oscar Fish

The Basics In freshwater aquariums, the oscar fish (or simply oscar) is a species from the cichlid family. Oscars originate from South America – namely the Amazon River basin – but have been introduced all over the world. There are many types of Oscar fish available as aquarium species. A common variety is the “tiger … Read more

Thoracic Vertebrae

Thoracic Vertebrae

Thoracic Vertebrae Definition The thoracic vertebrae are bones located between the cervical and lumbar vertebrae. There are 12 thoracic vertebrae in humans, and these bones increase in size as you move down the body.  They are thicker and larger than the cervical vertebrae but smaller than the lumbar vertebral bones. The increase in size ensures … Read more

Cleavage Furrow

Cleavage Furrow

Cleavage Furrow Definition A cleavage furrow is an indentation that appears in a cell’s surface when the cell is preparing to divide. It marks the beginning of the cell’s “pinching” its cell membrane and cytoplasm down the middle. Eventually, the cell will pinch itself completely in two, forming two daughter cells. This furrow is created … Read more