Functional roles of the transverse and longitudinal flagella in the swimming motility of Prorocentrum minimum (Dinophyceae).
2004
SUMMARY Equations describing the motion of the dinoflagellate Prorocentrum
minimum , which has both a longitudinal and a transverse flagellum, were
formulated and examined using numerical calculations based on hydrodynamic
resistive force theory. The calculations revealed that each flagellum has its
own function in cell locomotion. The transverse flagellum works as a
propelling device that provides the main driving force or thrust to move the
cell along the longitudinal axis of its helical swimming path. The
longitudinal flagellum works as a rudder, giving a lateral force to the cell
in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the helix. Combining
these functions results a helical swimming motion similar to the observed
motion. Flagellar hairs present on the transverse flagellum are necessary to
make the calculated cell motion agree with the observed cell motion.
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