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Specimen
079
Actinophrys sol is a fresh-water species of heliozoa frequently referred to as the sun animalcule. The name spawns from the numerous radiating pseudopodia that surround the spherical organism, which give it a sun-like appearance under the microscope. The pseudopodia of Actinophrys species and other heliozoans are generally used to capture prey. However, the cytoplasmic extensions can also be utilized to some extent for locomotion of the organisms. Heliozoans contain several large vacuoles and feed by engulfing their prey through a process known as phagocytosis. The tiny creatures consume almost anything in their path, primarily protozoa and algae, paying little heed to the size of their prey. |