Higher magnification view of the spongiome of the Contractile Vacuole Complex. The spongiome is composed of a three dimensional array of tubules that are continuous with the CV membrane. Many tubules ...

A partially filled contractile vacuole is connected to two regions of spongiome tubules. The extra CV membrane is acquired from these spongiomes. Presumably some of these spongiome tubules are decorat...

High resolution image of the CVC complex. The membrane along the collecting canal of ruptured cells shows that the excess smooth spongiome membrane forms a three-dimensional array similar to etiolated...

Cubic membrane such as this array represents the cell’s method of storing large quantities of lipid and protein bilayers into the smallest possible volume. These membranes can quickly expand into pl...

High resolution image of the contractile vacuole and the spongiome decorated tubules showing V-type proton pumps extending from the cytosolic side of the tubules; also detail of the micronucleus. TEM ...

An image of the contractile vacuole and the spongiome decorated tubules showing V-type proton pumps extending from the cytosolic side of the tubules; also detail of the micronucleus. TEM taken on 6/10...

High resolution image of quick-freeze deep-etch view of a radial arm showing a collecting canal surrounded with smooth spongiome as well as a few decorated tubules. However several larger vesicles lie...

Quick-freeze deep-etch view of a radial arm showing a collecting canal surrounded with smooth spongiome as well as a few decorated tubules. However several larger vesicles lie next to the radial arm c...

Occasionally mitochondria of Paramecium become filled with cristae that display a wavy or helical pattern. In thin sections these cristae are viewed as curved arcs as well as cross sectioned rows in d...