Question

Undulating membrane of Trypanosoma is for
A. Locomotion
B. Reproduction
C. protection
D. Food absorption.

Answer 1

Hint: Undulating membrane is a sinuous elongation of the cytoplasmic membrane performing robust, wavelike, and alternative movements. It is a row of laterally fused long cilia associated in many ciliates with the oral structures.

Complete answer:
To answer this question, first, we need to know about the Trypanosoma. Trypanosoma is a genus of kinetoplastids, a monophyletic group of unicellular parasitic flagellate protozoa. The most of species are transferred by blood-feeding invertebrates, but their mechanisms are different among the different species. Trypanosomes have undulating membranes that extend laterally down the length of the organism. This structure provides further motility to the parasite.
Now, let us find the solution from the option.
In a few parasitic flagellates like trichomonads and trypanosomes, undulating membrane is a wing-like elongation commonly related with the flagellum. The availability of undulating membranes increases movement of the parasite in a viscous fluid like blood.
Undulating membrane of Trypanosoma is not for reproduction, protection and food absorption. The presence of undulating membranes enhances motility of the parasite in a viscous fluid, such as blood.

Thus, the correct option is A. i.e. Locomotion.

Note: Undulating membrane is present in the trypanosomes, this membrane is also found in other species like trichomonads, and undulating membrane is a hand-like elongation commonly related with the flagellum. The movement of the parasite in a viscous fluid (like blood) is increased by the presence of an undulating membrane. In some ciliates like Tetrahymena, an undulating membrane is composed of a line of fused cilia and assumed to help in collecting food.