Question

Which of the following is incorrect about protista? (a) All are single cell eukaryotes (b) Some have flagella or cilia (c) Sexually reproduce by cell fusion and zygote formation (d) Members of protista are primarily terrestrial

Short answer

The incorrect statement about protistas is option (d), which asserts that members of protista are primarily terrestrial.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the characteristics of Protista

Protists are eukaryotic organisms that cannot be classified as a plant, animal, or fungus. They are mostly unicellular, but some, like algae, are multicellular.

Analyze option (a)

Option a states that all protists are single cell eukaryotes. While most protists are unicellular, there are some multicellular organisms in this group, such as algae. So, this statement is somewhat correct, but not completely.

Analyze option (b)

Option b states that some protists have flagella or cilia. This is indeed true, as many protists use these structures for their movement.

Analyze option (c)

Option c states that protists reproduce sexually by cell fusion and zygote formation. This is correct because protists have sexual and asexual reproduction. Sexual reproduction involves fusion of two cells and the formation of a zygote.

Analyze option (d)

Option d states that protists are primarily terrestrial. However, this is incorrect. While some protists can inhabit terrestrial environments, they are primarily aquatic, found in both freshwater and saltwater environments. So, this statement is incorrect.

Key concepts

Eukaryotic Organisms

Protista, a diverse group of organisms, are defined by their status as eukaryotes. But what does being a eukaryotic organism entail? Essentially, eukaryotes are cells with a true nucleus containing their genetic material, in contrast to prokaryotes, which lack a defined nucleus.

In addition to a nucleus, eukaryotic cells, like those of Protista, possess various organelles such as mitochondria for energy production, chloroplasts in photosynthetic species, and a complex cytoskeleton for structural support. This organization allows for more specialized functions and contributes to the diverse range of protist behaviors and lifestyles.

Unicellular and Multicellular Protists

While traditionally protists have been considered primarily unicellular organisms, this is a simplification. Indeed, the majority of protists such as amoebae and paramecium are unicellular; however, there are numerous exceptions like algae, which are multicellular.

Multicellular protists have a more complex life cycle and may exhibit specialization of cell types and division of labor, similar to more familiar multicellular organisms such as plants and animals. This diversity in cellular organization within the Protista kingdom is a crucial aspect of their biology and reflects the adaptability and evolutionary diversity of this group.

Protists Reproduction

Protists exhibit a wide variety of reproductive strategies, ranging from asexual to sexual forms of reproduction. Asexual reproduction is common and often involves processes like binary fission, where a single cell divides into two identical cells, or budding.

On the other hand, sexual reproduction among protists can be quite complex, involving the fusion of gametes to form a zygote. This can increase genetic variation and potentially offer a survival advantage in changing environments. The life cycle of some protists includes both asexual and sexual phases, showcasing the flexibility of these organisms in propagation and survival.

Protists Habitat

When considering the habitat of protists, it's important to recognize their extraordinary adaptability. While many are indeed aquatic, thriving in freshwater, marine environments, and even in the wet soil, protists can also be found in a range of terrestrial ecosystems.

Moist environments are particularly conducive to protists' survival, due to their need for water in many aspects of their life cycles, such as feeding and reproduction. This reliance on water explains why some protists are even found symbiotically living inside other organisms. Their presence in various habitats underscores the ecological versatility of protists and their significant role in different environmental niches.