Microbe:   Kingdom     Common name     Scientific name
           Animal
           Protozoan   trichomonad     Trichomonas
                                       vaginalis 

35 mm Slides - 2 

1.  Photomicrograph of live trichomonads; the organisms 
    can be idenitified by the presence of flagella
    which allows them to be move, and their swimming pattern.
    Because the organisms are so small we can almost see
    through them.  Therefore, is difficult to see the
    either their overall shape or details of its anatomy
    very clearly. 
    
2.  Photomicrograph of a dead trichomonad.  This one is
    taken at a higher magnification than the first slide.
    When the trichomonad is not moving, it is easier to
    find.  When it has been stained or coloured with
    special dyes, we can more clearly see some of its
    special features. 
    
    What is there to see?
 

    How do they reproduce?  
    By binary fission.  The cell grows, duplicates its
    essential features, and then splits in half to form two
    sister cells.

    Where are they found?

    How do they get there ?

    How do you identify them ?
    Using a microscope to see the motility (slide 1) or
    special features of the trichomonad (slide 2).

    How do you get rid of them?
    Take an antibiotic called metranidazole.
    This is a different medication than used for lice.
    Each type of organism is treated in a special way,
    depending on it biology.  We try to find a method which
    will eliminate the microbe but not the human infected
    with it.

Microscope Slide - Examine the slide under 10X and 40X
    magnification to see if you can find individual
    trichomonads having the special features noted above.

    Can you find a cell that is in the process of division?

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