Protozoa

[ proh-tuh-zoh-uh ]

noun

1. a major grouping or superphylum of the kingdom Protista, comprising the protozoans.

protozoa

1. Single-celled animals, such as amoebas , that are the most primitive form of animal life. In modern biology , they are classified in the kingdom of Protoctista rather than in the animal kingdom . ( See Linnean classification .)

Notes

Some protozoa are parasites and may be pathogenic , causing diseases such as malaria and dysentery .

Word History and Origins

Origin of Protozoa¹

From New Latin, dating back to 1825–35; proto-, -zoa

Example Sentences

The lowest Protozoa are entirely without any system of colouring; being merely of uniform tint, generally of brown colour.

From Project Gutenberg

By far the most important addition is the inclusion of an entirely new section on Pathogenic Protozoa.

From Project Gutenberg

Such lowly organized forms are known to naturalists as the Protozoa.

From Project Gutenberg

The present chapter will be devoted to the Protozoa—the sub-kingdom that includes the simplest of all animal beings.

From Project Gutenberg

These cells, called choanocytes, resemble independent animals of the Protozoa, known as flagellate Infusoria or Choanoflagellata.

From Project Gutenberg