Definition

Describing organisms that have a band of hair-like structures (cilia) around their body or mouth, often seen in certain types of protozoans and bacteria.

Example

The peritrichous protozoan uses its cilia to move and feed.

Conversation

Did you know there are bacteria that are peritrichous?

Really? What does that mean exactly?

It means they have flagella all over their surface, not just in one spot.

That’s so interesting! I love learning about tiny organisms.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Peritrichous → It is formed from "peri-" (meaning around) and "trichos" (from Greek, meaning hair). The word describes organisms that have hair-like structures distributed around their body.

Memory Tip

Think of 'peri-' meaning 'around' and 'trichos' meaning 'hair' — this helps you remember that 'peritrichous' refers to having hair-like structures all around.

Visually Confused Words