macronucleus
/ˌmækroʊˈnukliəs/
noun
- The larger of two types of nuclei in certain single-celled organisms, such as paramecia, that controls most of the cell's functions except reproduction.
- The paramecium's macronucleus directs its daily activities like feeding and moving.
- When a paramecium divides, the macronucleus splits to give each new cell a copy.
- Unlike the micronucleus, the macronucleus is not involved in sexual reproduction.
Antonyms