An amazing juggling rotifer

This 250micron rotifer appears to amuse itself by skillfully juggling three unicellular algae! In reality the animal is merely trying to swim or in the process of feeding, and is most likely unaware of the upset that she is causing to the local flora. The algae themselves are of the mobile type, but seem unable to tear away from the powerful current created by the rotifer's cilliate corona.

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• rotifer
• cillia
• algae
• microscope
• juggle
• wheel
• micrograph
• bdelloid

[humboldtsquid]

This rotifer is adorable. When it contracts its corona while lashing its tail, it looks as if it's giggling to itself. It appears to be a species of Testudinella, but I could be mistaken.