The membrane response to mechanical stimulation was investigated under voltage-clamp conditions in the hypotrich ciliate Stylonychia mytilus (Protozoa). The mechanoreceptor current shows high ionic selectivity, unlike than in metazoans. It is exclusively carried by potassium ions and is selectively inhibited by tetraethylammonium and 4-aminopyridine. Procaine, tetramethylammonium, caesium and d...