Question

Identify the organism from given characteristics

I. Unicellular protists found in fresh water.
II. Possess a protein-rich outer layer called pellicle
III. Have two flagella
IV. Possess pigments identical to those in higher plants. These characteristics apply to the genus

• A. Alternaria
• B. Nostoc
• C. Chlorella
• D. Euglena
• E. Gonyaulax

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

Euglena

• Euglena: The majority of them are freshwater organisms found in stagnant water. Instead of a cell wall, they have a protein-rich layer called a pellicle which makes their body flexible.
• They have two flagella, a short and a long one.
• Though they are photosynthetic in the presence of sunlight, when deprived of sunlight they behave like heterotrophs by predating other smaller organisms. Interestingly, the pigments of euglenoids are identical to those present in higher plants.
• Hence, Unicellular protists are found in freshwater. Possess a protein-rich outer layer called the pellicle. Have two flagella. Possess pigments identical to those in higher plants. These characteristics apply to the genus Identify the organism from given characteristics as Euglena.
• So, the correct answer is "Euglena'.