What is the life cycle of a spirostomum?

Spirostomum, a genus of ciliated protozoa, primarily reproduces asexually through binary fission, where a single organism divides into two identical cells. Under unfavorable conditions, they can also reproduce sexually via conjugation, where two organisms exchange genetic material. The life cycle begins with the organism feeding on bacteria and organic material in its aquatic environment, and it can form cysts to withstand adverse conditions. Overall, their life cycle is characterized by rapid growth and reproduction in suitable environments.