Question

Most protozoans are photosynthetic. (State whether the following statement is true.)
a. True
b. False

Answer 1

Hint: Protozoa are eukaryotic microorganisms. They usually don’t have the capability for photosynthesis, although the genus Euglena is renowned for motility as well as photosynthesis (and is hence considered both an alga and a protozoan).

Complete answer:
Protozoa are a very miscellaneous group of single-celled organisms, with more than fifty thousand different types represented. The vast majority are microscopic, many measuring less than 1/200 mm, but some, such as the freshwater Spirostomum, may reach 0.17 in (3 mm) in length, large enough to enable it to be seen with the naked eye.

Scientists have determined a fossilized specimen of protozoa that measured 0.78 in (20 mm) in diameter. Whatever the size, though, protozoans are eminent for their diversity and the fact that they have evolved under so many different conditions.

One of the basic necessities of all protozoans is the existence of water, but within this inadequacy, they may live in the sea, rivers, soil, and in some decaying matters. Many are unsocial organisms, but some live-in colonies; some are free-living, others are stalkless; and some species are even parasites of plants and animals (including humans). Many protozoans form complex, attractive shapes and their beauty is often greatly overlooked on account of their minute size.

Hence, the correct answer is option (b).

Note: Euglena is also a protozoa which has chloroplast in it. Even though they depend on the environment for food, they also made their food through photosynthesis. They use flagella for locomotion which are black in color.