Question

Which of the following is an algal source of SCP?
A. Candida
B. Methanobacillus
C. Chlorella
D. Saccharomyces

Answer 1

Hint: Single-celled proteins are also known as microbial proteins. It refers to those microorganisms which are edible and provide adequate nutrients. It can be used as an alternative for traditional protein-rich food materials.

Complete answer:
Chlorella is a unicellular green alga. The species are used as SCP due to their higher growth rate, very high content of proteins, high chlorophyll as well as nucleic acid content. This can be used as an alternative protein source. Since the organism is unicellular it is a source of Single-cell protein.
Considering the other given options:
Candida is a fungal species, which has the potential of causing skin infections in animals. It is also an inhabitant in the gut of humans, being a component in the gut flora. The disease caused by these organisms is known as Candidiasis, mostly infecting immunocompromised patients. Thus it is not an appropriate answer.
Methanobacillus are bacteria that use methane for their respiration. These organisms can survive in the absence of oxygen. They are the members of the domain Archaea. Thus it is not an appropriate answer.
Saccharomyces is a fungus commonly known as yeast. They are involved in the fermentation reactions. Thus it is not the appropriate option.
Therefore from the above-given options, the most appropriate answer is C, i.e., Chlorella is an algal source of SCP.

Note: There are certain advantages in using SCPs over traditional food sources. These organisms have a faster rate of growth so that a large amount can be produced in a lesser period. The entire cell can be ingested. They have a higher protein content compared to their other counterparts.