In biology, a lorica is a shell-like protective outer covering, often reinforced with sand grains and other particles that some protozoans and loriciferan animals secrete.
[4] There are three phases in the formation of lorica: agglomeration in a natural cast; helical extension; and stabilization.
The lorica serves several ecological roles: The original meaning of the word "lorica" is cuirass, a type of chest armor, originally made of leather, afterward of plates of metal or horn sewn on linen or the like.
[6] Research on loricae has provided insights into the evolutionary adaptations and ecological strategies of microorganisms.
Studies have focused on the structural diversity, material composition, and the genetic mechanisms underlying lorica formation.