Basis of differentiation | Endoplasm | Ectoplasm |
Definition | The more fluid, granular inner layer of the cytoplasm in amoeboid cells | The more viscous, clear outer layer of the cytoplasm in ameboid cells |
Location in the cell | The endoplasm is located in the inner layer of the cytoplasm | The ectoplasm is located in the outer layer of the cytoplasm, adjacent to the plasma membrane |
Area | Endoplasm occupies a large region of the cell | Ectoplasm occupies a small region in the cell |
Density | Endoplasm is more dense | Ectoplasm is less dense |
Cellular processes | Endoplasm is the site for most cellular processes | Not many cellular processes occur in the ectoplasm |
Quantity of granules | Contains more granules than the ectoplasm | Does not contain many granules |
Function | Contains the endomembrane system of the cell | Has a high quantity of actin filaments to provide elastic support to the cell membrane |
Properties | Is less viscous (clear gel) | Is more viscous, fluid like |
Role in locomotion | The movement of the ambodoid cell is assisted by the endoplasm flowing in different directions | The ectoplasm extends into a pseudopodium to direct the cell’s movement |