Definition
paramylum
noun
- A carbohydrate storage compound found in certain protists, particularly euglenoids, that serves a function similar to starch in plants.
Usage: biology; technical; also called paramylon
Examples
- Paramylum granules accumulate in euglena cells as an energy reserve.
- The presence of paramylum is a distinguishing feature of euglenoid protists.
- Under the microscope, paramylum appears as small, refractile bodies within the cell.
- Paramylum serves as the primary storage polysaccharide in euglenoids, much like glycogen in animals.