Abstract
Abstract Two-dimensional swimming tracks of paramecia on the vertical plane were photographed by 4-sec exposure under a dark field. The orientation rate (meaning the degree of upward curvature of the swimming path) was measured under various experimental conditions. The rate decreased in a K-rich medium as well as in a viscous methylcellulose solution. The decreasing tendency of the orientation rate was closely coupled with that of swimming velocity. The rate was also decreased in a solution with a high specific gravity which was made up by heavy water. The specimen did not show geotactic orientation either during or just after the application of an electric current. The motile behavior of the individual specimen under gravity, which was recorded on videotape, showed that a larger angular change in the cell axis was always coupled with an upswing phase of the gyration. The theoretical equations of motion for physical models were set up, and the most probable mechanism was discussed on the basis of the present findings.
Published Version
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