Question

Write a note on Euglena.

Answer 1

Euglena are a genus classified under Eukaryotes. These are single-celled protists and are free-living microorganisms that show characteristics of both plant and animal cells. Euglena can be found in ponds, lakes and fresh or brackish water rich in organic matter. Most of them are aerobic and are photoautotrophs. However, some species can also feed heterotrophically and can engulf food directly through the surface through phagocytosis. Common features of the cell anatomy include a nucleus, contractile vacuole, Golgi apparatus, endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria and one or two flagella. Other features include a flexible outer membrane called pellicle. Some species also have an eyespot and photoreceptors which help in light detection. Apart from this they have chlorophyll containing chloroplasts and sometimes, carotenoid pigments. Examples for Euglena species are, E. viridis and E. sanguinea.