Primary differences between cilia and flagella are

Cilia and flagella are two types of cell organelles that are structurally similar but differ in function and length. Cilia are short and numerous (hundreds) in number within each cell. Flagella, on the other hand, are longer and there are fewer of them per cell (usually one to eight). Even though eukaryotic flagella and motile cilia are structurally identical, their beating patterns can differ. Flagella move in an undulating, wave-like motion, whereas motile cilia move in a more complicated 3D motion with a power and recovery stroke. Cilia and flagella are cell external structures that primarily aid in cell locomotion. Cilia are short, hair-like structures that cover the surface of some cells in large numbers. Flagella are long, thread-like structures that can only be found at one end of a cell. Cilia beat in a synchronised rhythm, whereas flagella beat independently. Cilia are only found in eukaryotic cells. Flagella are present in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Undulipodia organisms have both motile cilia and flagella. Cilia prevent dust from accumulating inside the breathing tubes by forming a thin layer of mucous along the tubes, whereas flagella are primarily used by sperm cells to propel themselves through the female reproductive organ.