Abstract

Five ciliate species of Euplotes were isolated from fresh and coastal water during a sampling survey to identify unrecorded ciliates in South Korea. Their morphology was investigated using live observation, protargol and “wet” silver nitrate staining methods. Brief descriptions and microphotographs of each species and a comparison with related species are provided. Euplotes focardii is characterized by an average size of 65×47 μm after protargol impregnation, 6 dorsal and 3 ventral ridges and dorsal argyrome pattern of double-eurystomus type. Euplotes nobilii shows an average size of 34×20 μm after protargol staining, 6 dorsal and 3 ventral ridges and dorsal argyrome pattern of double-patella type. Euplotes octocarinatus, the only freshwater species described in the present study, is characterized by an average size of 66×46 μm after protargol impregnation, 6 dorsal and 3 ventral ridges and dorsal argyrome pattern of double-patella type. Euplotes petzi has an average size of 43×30 μm after protargol staining, a macronucleus hook-shaped and dorsal argyrome pattern in double-patella type. Euplotes raikovi is characterized by an average size of 40×24 μm after protargol staining, 6 dorsal and 3 ventral ridges and dorsal argyrome pattern of double patella type.