Question

Describe two ways in which paramecium differs from the projected traits of the last eukaryotic common ancestor.

Short answer

Thepresence of two nuclei in place of one, and the occurrence of binary fission during asexual reproduction differ paramecium from the last eukaryotic common ancestor.

Step-by-step solution

Introduction

Paramecium comes under the category of ciliates, that is, a group of protists, which differ in length from 10 to 3000 micrometers. This organism is covered intufts, rows, or spirals of tiny cilia.

Explanation

Paramecium varies from the projected traits of the last eukaryotic common ancestor in the following possible ways:

1. The presence of two nuclei, that is, micronucleus and macronucleus in place of one nucleus.

2. The occurrence of binary fission or amitotic division at the time of asexual reproduction in place of mitotic cell division.