Tectin is an organic substance secreted by certain
ciliate
The ciliates are a group of alveolates characterized by the presence of hair-like organelles called cilia, which are identical in structure to eukaryotic flagella, but are in general shorter and present in much larger numbers, with a differen ...
s.
Tectin may form an adhesive stalk, disc or other sticky secretion. Tectin may also form a gelatinous envelope or membrane enclosing some ciliates as a protective capsule or
lorica. Tectin is also called pseudo
chitin
Chitin ( C8 H13 O5 N)n ( ) is a long-chain polymer of ''N''-acetylglucosamine, an amide derivative of glucose. Chitin is probably the second most abundant polysaccharide in nature (behind only cellulose); an estimated 1 billion tons of chit ...
. Granules or rods (called
protrichocysts) in the
pellicle
Pellicle may refer to:
* Pellicle (biology), a thin layer supporting the cell membrane in various protozoa
* Pellicle mirror, a thin plastic membrane which may be used as a beam splitter or protective cover in optical systems
*Pellicle (dental), ...
of some ciliates are also thought to be involved in tectin secretion.
See also
*
Chitin
Chitin ( C8 H13 O5 N)n ( ) is a long-chain polymer of ''N''-acetylglucosamine, an amide derivative of glucose. Chitin is probably the second most abundant polysaccharide in nature (behind only cellulose); an estimated 1 billion tons of chit ...
*
Conchiolin
*
Sporopollenin
270px, SEM image of pollen grains
Sporopollenin is one of the most chemically inert biological polymers. It is a major component of the tough outer (exine) walls of plant spores and pollen grains. It is chemically very stable and is usually well ...
References
Ciliate biology
Biomolecules
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