There are two major classes of cilia: motile and non-motile cilia, each with two subtypes, giving four types in all. [5] A cell will typically have one primary cilium or many motile cilia. [6]
Cilia are tiny hair-like appendages present on the eukaryotic cell surface that provides a means of locomotion to different protozoans and animals. The term ‘cilia’ is a Latin term meaning eyelash indicating the tiny eyelash-like appearance of the structure.
Cilium, short eyelashlike filament that is numerous on tissue cells of most animals and provides the means for locomotion of protozoans of the phylum Ciliophora. Cilia may be fused in short transverse rows to form membranelles or in tufts to form cirri.