Ciliates multiply by fission in varying forms. The Vorticella divides by budding, a form of fission. On this animal a bud is clearly seen developing at the base of the body where it meets the stalk. The bud, with its own nucleus, will break away and form its own stalk. Because each Vorticella has its own stalk they cannot be considered communal animals, although they usually can be found grouped together. In this image the Vorticella is attached to a piece of decayed matter. Out of view are also a dozen or more other Vorticella attached to the same object.
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