Login

how did binary fission occur in paramecium?

Binary fission is a type of asexual reproduction practiced by unicellular organisms in which the parent cell divides into two daughter cells. Paramecium reproduces by the process of binary fission. The entire body of paramecium is covered by fine hair like structures known as cilia and it has two types of nuclei, meganucleus and micronucleus. At the time of binary fission, these cilia stops moving and the division of both meganucleus and micronucleus occurs. These divided meganucleus and micronucleus move on the opposite ends of the organism. Further, the cytoplasm of the organism divides separating the two daughter cells. Binary fission in Paramecium can occur 2 to 3 times each day.

  • 2
View Full Answer

Paramecium is a ciliate protozoan. Ciliates’ bodies are covered with fine cytoplasmic hair-like structures called cilia. Flickering movements of the cilia propel the organism through the water and also create feeding currents. Paramecium is a ciliate. In describing its structure, comparisons will be made with amoeba. It is suggested, therefore, that amoeba is studied first.

Unlike amoeba, paramecium has a distinct and permanent shape and certain areas of cytoplasm, (cell organelles), are specialised to carry out specific functions.

  • 1
What are you looking for?