The spindle fibers that pull the chromosomes apart during mitosis form from the vicinity of the centrioles. Because of this behavior it was long felt that centrioles were necessary for animal cell division. However, some animal cells can divide when the centrioles have been removed. Details Centrioles resemble basal bodies which are found at the base of cilia and flagella. In fact, in the flagellated alga Chlamydomonas the basal bodies move from the base of the flagella and become centrioles during cell division.
Centrioles are found in animal cells, the cells of most protists also contain centrioles.
Interestingly enough, plant, fungus and red algae cells are fully capable of dividing without centrioles. Mosses and the ancient tree, Ginko, also have centrioles. This document was prepared by P. Vanderschaegen. Last revised July 17, 1995.