TEM observations on symbionts ofJoenia annectens(Flagellata Hypermastigida)

Transmission electron microscopy was used to evaluate the ultrastructural morphology of some other symbiotic prokaryotes of Joenia annectens, an intestinal flagellate of the termite Kalotermes flavicollis. Three morphotypes are predominant and recognizable from their morphological characteristics. One morphotype is represented by spirochaetes that are mainly external and cover the flagellate, helping its movement. Rod-shaped bacteria, which represent the second morphotype, are also attached to the surface among the spirochaetes. Rod-shaped bacteria and some spirochaetes may enter the cell surface of Joenia annectens as a consequence of phagocytosis, remaining enclosed in an envelope of plas…