Particle ejection from the cytoproct of Tetrahymena

Egestion of carmine particle-containing food vacuoles from the cytoproct of Tetrahymena pyriformis has been analyzed by high-speed cinemicrography. The vacuole may enter into position in the cytoproct approximately 7 sec before ejection, and forms a distinct bulge beyond the outline of the cell surface for over 2 sec prior to ejection. The ejection process itself requires 20-80 msec.