(băl-ăn-tĭd′ē-ŭm)
[Gr. balantidion, a bag]
A genus of ciliated protozoa. A number of species are found in the intestines of both vertebrates and invertebrates.
A normal parasite of swine and the largest protozoan parasite of humans. It causes balantidiasis.
BALANTIDIUM COLI CYST (×400)