1. Plural of peritrich; ciliated protozoans of the class Peritricha, typically bell-shaped and sessile, with cilia arranged in a spiral around the mouth.
Usage: biology; microbiology; technical

Examples

• Peritrichs are commonly found in freshwater environments attached to surfaces.
• The researcher observed peritrichs under the microscope, noting their distinctive bell shape.
• Peritrichs use their spiral cilia to create water currents that draw in food particles.
• Many peritrichs form colonies on aquatic plants and rocks.
• The class Peritricha includes both solitary peritrichs and colonial forms.