An analysis of the determinative difference between singlets and doublets of Oxytricha fallax

Abstract

SUMMARY: Doublets of Oxytricha fallax possess two complete sets of ciliature. The doublet phenotype is inherited through sexual and asexual reproduction as a cortically determined trait. The trait is also inherited through cystment, independent of cyst size. Prior work shows an absence of all visible cortical organelles, except cell membranes, in the cyst; thus the visible structures are not themselves determinative.Results from excision experiments performed on encysting doublets indicate that the determinative difference between doublets and singlets is the presence of one or two ‘determinative regions’ located on the ventral surfaces of the organisms which serve as sites for the initiation of ciliary primordium development. Doublets possess two such areas, but singlets possess only one.