Balantidium coli is the only parasitic ciliate known to affect humans, causing intestinal illness. Although it rarely causes serious medical issues, it can present significant health risks to immunocompromised individuals.

Balantidium coli

Balantidium is a genus of ciliates that causes balantidiasis.

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Ciliates (Ciliophora) are a diverse group within the Chromalveolata characterized by the presence of cilia on their cell surface. These cilia are utilized for movement or feeding, and while many forms are motile, some species are nonmotile.

Ciliates

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Microbiology covers the scope and sequence requirements for a single-semester microbiology course for non-majors. The book presents the core concepts of microbiology with a focus on applications for careers in allied health. The pedagogical features of the text make the material interesting and accessible while maintaining the career-application focus and scientific rigor inherent in the subject matter. Microbiology’s art program enhances students’ understanding of concepts through clear and effective illustrations, diagrams, and photographs.

Microbiology is produced through a collaborative publishing agreement between OpenStax and the American Society for Microbiology Press. The book aligns with the curriculum guidelines of the American Society for Microbiology.

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Balantidium

Paramecium is a genus of motile, non-pathogenic ciliates that possess a distinct cytostome and cytoproct. Due to these visible cell structures, they are commonly studied in biology laboratories.

Paramecium

Stentor is a genus of non-pathogenic ciliates that are sessile (nonmotile) and use their cilia primarily for feeding.

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