The stalk of the Vorticella extends back to about 15 times its body length. The sticky end allows the Vorticella to attach its stalk to suspended objects, or more likely, the pond bottom. The Vorticella then slowly patrols a circular area, sweeping food into its huge mouth. When startled, the creature instantly recoils to the point of its anchored stalk, then slowly extends itself once again. Back To Image Index Page