Unsuccessful conjugation

Two Strobilidium are connected to each other. Are they in the process of conjugation? In the top view, we cannot see a wall separating the organisms. From the side view, there is a transparent membrane structure that seems to connect the top of the two bodies. However, this conjugation fails because after 4 minutes, the cell walls of both organisms suddenly begin to collapse, and the cell contents spill out and scatter.

Commentary by Prof. Yuji Tsukii, Hosei University
These 2 Strobilidium-like cells began their conjugation smoothly enough, but unfortunately the rapid movement and collision caused tear in the cell membrane.

Sampling Date : 03 July 2009

Sampling Site : Hirose River B  Google Map

Conjugating ciliates attacked by Coleps

A pair of conjugating Oxytricha of different sizes are suddenly attacked by a Coleps. The smaller Oxitricha is bitten nearly in half, which causes the bonding pair to move their cilia intensively in a frantic effort to escape. Finally the pair separates, and the dwarf and the giant swim off in different directions.

Commentary by Prof. Yuji Tsukii, Hosei University
This interesting video needs no additional comments.

Sampling Date : 20 October 2009

Sampling Site : Hirose River A  Google Map