Euglenid

A single-celled eukaryote in the group Euglenida, typically bearing one or more flagella. Many euglenids photosynthesize, while others obtain food by consuming or absorbing organic matter.

Euglenida: A group of unicellular eukaryotes that includes organisms with diverse modes of nutrition and cell forms. This broader group contains euglenids and defines their taxonomic placement.
Euglenoid movement: A crawling form of locomotion produced by shape changes along a flexible cell body. Some euglenids move through confined spaces by deforming their pellicle.
Euglena gracilis: A photosynthetic euglenid widely studied in cell biology, physiology, and biotechnology. Its tractability has made it a common laboratory representative of euglenids.
Euglenozoa: A diverse group of flagellated eukaryotes that includes euglenids, kinetoplastids, and related organisms. Euglenids belong to this broader lineage of flagellated protists.
Eukaryote: An organism whose cells contain a nucleus and other membrane-bound compartments. Euglenids share the defining cellular organization of eukaryotes.
Phototaxis: Directional movement of an organism toward or away from a light source. Light-seeking behavior can position photosynthetic euglenids for effective photosynthesis.
Euglena gracilis chloroplast genome: The genetic sequence of the chloroplast DNA in Euglena gracilis. Its unusual features have helped researchers investigate chloroplast genome organization.
Secondary endosymbiosis: An evolutionary process in which a eukaryotic cell acquires a photosynthetic organelle by engulfing another eukaryote. Euglenid chloroplasts descend from an engulfed green alga.
Flagellum: A long cellular appendage that moves a cell or moves fluid past it. Euglenid flagella commonly provide locomotion and help orient cells.
Flagellar locomotion: Movement generated by the beating of one or more flagella. A prominent flagellum propels many euglenids through water.

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