Question

Pseudopodia in amoeba helps in
A) Locomotion
B) Engulfment
C) Ingestion
D) All of the above

Answer 1

Hint: Pseudopodia is a temporary cytoplasm-filled projection of a eukaryotic cell membrane or a unicellular protist. It helps in various functions but is mainly responsible for the movement of the organism from one place to another.

Complete answer:
Pseudopods may be used for motility, or for ingesting nutrients or other particulate matter. It senses the prey that can then be engulfed; the engulfing pseudopodia are called phagocytosis pseudopodia. Hence, pseudopodia in amoeba help in locomotion, engulfment, and ingestion. Pseudopodia are an example of blunt transient processes employed by cells such as amoeba or the neutrophils for locomotion and the uptake of food particles. A pseudopodia is a temporary arm-like projection of a eukaryotic cell membrane that is developed in the direction of movement. Filled with cytoplasm, pseudopodia primarily consist of actin filaments and may also contain microtubules and intermediate filaments.

Additional Information:
- Amoeba is a type of cell or unicellular organism which has the ability to change its shape, by extending and retracting pseudopods. Amoeboid cells occur not only among the protozoa, but also in fungi, algae, and animals.
- Amoebae do not have cell walls, which allows for free movement. Amoebae move and feed by using pseudopods, which are bulges of cytoplasm formed by the coordinated action of actin microfilaments pushing out the plasma membrane that surrounds the cell.
- The food sources of amoebae vary. Some amoebae are predatory and live by consuming bacteria and other protists.

So, the correct answer is option (D), 'All of the above'.

Note:
- Amoebae typically ingest their food by phagocytosis. They extend pseudopods to encircle and engulf live prey or particles of scavenged material.
- Amoeboid cells do not have a mouth or cytostome, and there is no fixed place on the cell at which phagocytosis normally occurs.
- Some are detritivores and eat dead organic material.