Volvox A multicellular alga
Almost everyone who views this large, green, rotating sphere under the microscope says ‘wow!’. Volvox is a unique multicellular alga just visible to the naked eye. Multicellular means that it consists of more than one cell working together, and a single Volvox colony can consist of up to 50,000 cells.
Task distribution
The cells don’t just do any old thing – each cell has its own task within this rotating sphere. For example, the cells on the outside all have a small whip, or flagellum. When sunlight falls on the Volvox colony, all the flagella begin to whip in unison, causing it to roll towards the light so it can absorb as much of it as possible. This drives photosynthesis, providing Volvox with energy. Cells within the sphere are responsible for reproduction and the creation of new colonies. These cells continue to grow and divide until the colony bursts open, releasing new Volvox colonies.
Is Volvox always green?
Volvox colonies are usually green due to the presence of chloroplasts, which are essential for photosynthesis. Chloroplasts contain chlorophyll, a green pigment. The colour can also vary, however, depending on the species and ecological conditions.
Antonie van Leeuwenhoek
Antonie van Leeuwenhoek, the Dutch inventor of the microscope, first discovered Volvox in 1700. He used the very first microscope to examine pond water, peering into the previously undiscovered realm of microbes. To this day, Volvox remains a favourite subject for viewing under a microscope. It is not only beautiful to look at, it is also a great example of the collaboration within multicellular organisms.
Want to learn more about microbes?
Volvox is just one of the many microscopic organisms on display at ARTIS-Micropia, each and every one of them with its own unique role in our world. Come by and discover them all!