"Sucks out cells": unusual species of vampire amoebas discovered in Germany
Scientists from the University of Cologne in Germany have shared an amazing discovery.
They have identified a new species of amoeba that uses an unusual method of predation.
This species was named Strigomyxa ruptor, writes Ecology and Evolution .
This is a rare group of amoebae, single-celled organisms known as vampirellids. They live in freshwater ecosystems and play an important role in ecology.
Scientists' attention to Strigomyxa ruptor is due to its ability to completely absorb algae cells without leaving a trace.
It is noteworthy that when absorbing a cell, the amoeba places the victim's cell in a special "intracellular chamber".
Then the cell wall dissolves, after which the amoeba sucks out the contents and throws the remains out.
This new species was discovered in the bogs of Cologne and Recke.
The size of amoebas varies quite small: only from 50 to 150 micrometers.
Strigomyxa ruptor is unpretentious in its choice of food.
It hunts both protozoa and more complex algae, nematodes and rotifer eggs.
