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trichocyst

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(trik′ə sist′)

noun

any of the many tiny, rodlike, stinging and attachment organelles embedded in the ectoplasm of many ciliated protozoans

Origin: tricho- + -cyst

Related Forms:

trichocystic adjective

See trichocyst in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

A stinging or grasping organ in the outer cytoplasm of certain protozoans, especially ciliates, consisting of a threadlike or bristlelike filament that can be discharged suddenly from a minute capsule.

Related Forms:

trichˌo·cysˈtic adjective

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trichocyst

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