Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Flagella are long, whip-like appendages that protrude from the cell body and help in movement. They can be found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
Related terms
Cilia: Shorter, hair-like structures present on the surface of all mammalian cells which move fluid over a cell's surface.
Pseudopodia: Temporary projections of eukaryotic cell membranes or unicellular protists which aid in feeding and locomotion.
Axoneme: The central shaft of a cilium or flagellum, containing microtubules arranged in a characteristic pattern.