noun
- a small nucleus found in certain single-celled organisms, especially ciliated protozoans, that contains genetic material and is involved in sexual reproduction
Usage: biology
Examples
- The paramecium has both a macronucleus and a micronucleus.
- During conjugation, the micronucleus divides to exchange genetic material.
- Scientists studied the role of the micronucleus in ciliate reproduction.
- The micronucleus is much smaller than the macronucleus in most protozoans.
- Genetic diversity in ciliates depends on micronucleus function.
- Researchers observed micronucleus division under the microscope.