I just captured a crazy moment under the microscope! This Paramecium couldn’t handle the pressure from the cover glass and popped open. You can actually see its cell contents spilling out. This was captured using Phase Contrast microscopy, so everything is in black and white. 20x Speed

A ciliate approaches from above and gently touches the Vorticella. In an instant, Vorticella retracts - so fast it looks like it vanishes! Vorticella grows on a stalk and pulls itself back to avoid danger. One of the fastest movements in nature!
Full video: youtu.be/afGTxOSYnzQ