Thuricola and Vorticella ciliates. Light microscope differential interference contrast (DIC) footage of one each of the peritrich ciliates Thuricola folliculata (green, elongated) and Vorticella (bell-shaped). These sessile microscopic organisms are found in water, attached to other plants and animals by a stalk. Thuricola folliculata houses symbiotic green algae (genus Chlorella), and has a shell-like protective chitinous outer covering (a lorica), with a flap valve. On disturbance, the ciliate retracts into its housing. The Vorticella ciliate similarly contracts its stalk for protection. Both ciliates retract at the start of this clip. Magnification: x285 at 10 centimetres across.