Arcella

Arcella
Arcella spectabilis from Mer Bleue, Ottawa
Scientific classification
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Arcella

Ehrenberg, 1830


Arcella is a genus of testate amoebae in the order Arcellinida, commonly found in ponds, wetlands, moss, and soil. It is distinguished by a radially symmetrical organic shell, which features a central aperture through which pseudopods are extended. Recognized for its broad ecological adaptability, Arcella has been described as "probably the most ecologically successful Arcellinid taxon", with several species exhibiting a cosmopolitan distribution across diverse environments.