After following notes from @Laks on hay cultures..

Culturing ciliates: The Hay Infusion, Day 8

I decided to create my own hay cultures; and watched them grow. It’s been fascinating to see the cultures grow; and I see new things almost on a daily basis.

I want to quickly share possibly the largest Euplotes I have seen. What’s incredible are the clear cirri; two class of cilia – one close to the mouth opening and a class all around used for walking. Take a first look..

Here is a view with other ciliates and Rotifers visible in the same field of view.

Next; I used 240fps high speed imaging mode to actually watch the cilia. It’s clear how different cilia beat at different frequency. I will upload these videos soon.

I find the oral cavity of the ciliates incredible. In several of the movies you can see bacteria being caught and trapped in the cavity.

@Matt recently in his comment eluded to the 3D forms of animals – which are clearly visible in these videos.

If you can identify the species – please do write a comment.

Cheers

Manu