The cells are often embedded in a mucilaginous matrix and may be motile or non motile.

Most diatoms are non motile, as their relatively dense cell walls cause them to readily sink.

Motile cilia are usually present on a cell's surface in large numbers and beat in coordinated waves.

Lung cancer cells that are resistant to the chemotherapy gemcitabine are less proliferative, invasive, and motile than their drug sensitive counterparts.