Many species of the genus
Vorticella
are common ciliates living in many types of aquatic habitats. Their distinctive, contractile stalk anchors the unicellular body to a substrate. Contraction of the cell is calcium‐driven and independent of
adenosine triphosphate
(ATP), relying on the presence of calcium‐binding proteins. A coupled mechanochemical model accounts for the coiling of an elastic stalk and the binding of calcium to the calcium‐binding proteins. Stalk elongation is driven by elastic energy stored in the coiled stalk and the rate of elongation is controlled by calcium dissociation from calcium‐binding proteins and its re‐sequestration into internal stores. Recently, the taxonomic status of the subclass Peritichia has changed radically based on molecular studies. The former order Mobilida was removed from the subclass and elevated to the level of a separate subclass. Phylogenetic studies using small subunit
ribosomal ribonucleic acid
(ssu rRNA) and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences place the Peritrichia closer to the subclass Hymenostomatia and the Mobilia closer to the subclass Peniculia.
Key Concepts:
Contractility in
Vorticella
relies on a calcium‐driven, ATP‐independent system that depends on calcium‐binding proteins.
Vorticella
can be used as a bio‐indicator for the evaluation of polluted waterways.
Vorticella
and similar filter‐feeding ciliates are used to clarify sewage in waste treatment plants.
Vorticella
is a useful organism for the study of exocytosis by examining production and release of granules that form the extracellular matrix of the stalk and the adhesive pad.
Vorticella
stalk contraction and relaxation is dependent of the presence or absence of calcium ions, this property can be exploited in a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) to perform linear work generated by spasmonemal contraction and controlled by calcium levels.
Chemical analysis of the sticky material that anchors the stalk of
Vorticella
firmly to its substrate could result in the identification of a new type of adhesive material that sets in water.
