A paramecium is a single-celled, eukaryotic organism classified under the kingdom Protista. It possesses a characteristic slipper-like shape and is covered in cilia, hair-like structures that facilitate movement and feeding. Paramecia are found in various aquatic environments, particularly in freshwater. They are known for their ability to reproduce through a process called binary fission, as well as their role in the microbial food web. Due to their relatively simple structure and behavior, paramecia are often utilized in scientific studies to understand cellular processes and ecological dynamics.