Which of the following microorganisms reproduce only inside the cells of the host organism?
Which of the following microorganisms reproduce only inside the cells of the host organism?
The correct option is B Viruses
A virus is a small infectious agent that replicates only inside the living cells of other organisms. Viruses can infect all types of life forms, from animals and plants to microorganisms, including bacteria and archaea.
Bacteria are living things. They can reproduce all by themselves and do not need a host to survive. They are single-celled and reproduce by duplicating themselves.
Fungi are saprophytic organisms. They can live by themselves and do not need a host to survive. A fungus can be sexual or asexual (vegetative). It can reproduce on its own, outside the host's body, but once it is inside the host (ingested, etc.) it turns to sexual reproduction and depends upon its host.
Protozoans are living, one-celled creatures that can live inside or outside the cell. They can also survive without a host.
Viruses
A virus is a small infectious agent that replicates only inside the living cells of other organisms. Viruses can infect all types of life forms, from animals and plants to microorganisms, including bacteria and archaea.
Bacteria are living things. They can reproduce all by themselves and do not need a host to survive. They are single-celled and reproduce by duplicating themselves.
Fungi are saprophytic organisms. They can live by themselves and do not need a host to survive. A fungus can be sexual or asexual (vegetative). It can reproduce on its own, outside the host's body, but once it is inside the host (ingested, etc.) it turns to sexual reproduction and depends upon its host.
Protozoans are living, one-celled creatures that can live inside or outside the cell. They can also survive without a host.
