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Base of a cilium or flagellum — structure
publish date: 2026/06/16 20:56:50.808321 UTC
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Cilia and flagella are cytoplasmic outgrowths from the surface of the cell, surrounded by extensions of the cell membrane. What is the base of a long cilium or flagellum called?
Correct Answer
basal body
Explanation
The base of each cilium or flagellum is a structure called the basal body. Basal bodies are structurally identical to centrioles — both are composed of nine sets of microtubule triplets arranged in a cylindrical pattern. The basal body anchors the cilium or flagellum to the cell and is thought to organize the assembly of the axoneme (the 9+2 microtubule core of the cilium/flagellum).
Reference
Biology: A Self-Teaching Guide