Alveolates with nuclear dimorphism - co-existence of a selectively polyploid macronucleus and diploid micronucleus, flagella = cilia numerous at some stage, somatic cilia in rows (kineties), and the bases of the cilia giving rise to elements of the cortical cytoskeleton; cortex perforated by mouth or mouths, cytopyge (= cell anus), opening of contractile vacuoles, and egress points for ejectisomes. Common, widespread in most aquatic habitats. Many descriptive terms relate to the pattern of oral or somatic cilia as revealed by silver staining.