When the paramecium beat the water in a coordinated way that produces waves in the water the food item will be directed into the gullet.

Coordinated Movement of Cilia

Ciliated protozoa are unicellular organisms that have hair-like structures called cilia on their surface. These cilia help in movement, feeding, and other functions. The coordinated movement of rows of cilia helps in steering water laden with food into the gullet of the protozoan.

How Does it Work?

The cilia present on the surface of the protozoan move in a coordinated manner to create a current of water that carries food particles towards the organism. The cilia work together to move in a wave-like motion, which propels the water and food towards the gullet or mouth of the protozoan.

Once the food reaches the gullet, it is engulfed by the protozoan and enclosed in a food vacuole. The vacuole then fuses with a lysosome, which contains digestive enzymes. The enzymes break down the food particles into smaller molecules that can be absorbed by the cell.

Advantages of Cilia

The coordinated movement of cilia provides several advantages to ciliated protozoa. Some of these include:

1. Efficient Feeding: The coordinated movement of cilia ensures that food particles are efficiently directed towards the gullet, allowing for efficient feeding.

2. Protection: Cilia also help in removing unwanted particles or debris from the surface of the protozoan, providing protection against harmful substances.

3. Movement: Cilia also aid in movement, helping the protozoan to swim through water and find food.

Conclusion

In summary, the coordinated movement of cilia in ciliated protozoa helps in directing water laden with food towards the gullet, allowing for efficient feeding. The cilia also provide protection and aid in movement, making them important structures for the survival of these organisms.