Protozoa Flashcards

Are protozoa prokaryotic or eukaryotic?

Are protozoa unicellular or multicellular?

What is one way protozoa can be classified?

What type of locomotion does phylum Sarcodina use?

What type of locomotion does phylum Ciliophora use?

What type of locomotion does phylum Zoomastigina use?

What type of locomotion does phylum Sporozoa use?

Are protozoa autotrophic or heterotrophic?

Can all protozoa reproduce asexually or sexually?

Do protozoans have tissue differentiation?

Protozoa Overview

Protozoa are unicellular eukaryotic organisms.
They possess a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Classification

Protozoa are classified as diverse groups of unicellular organisms.
Historically viewed as single-celled animals due to animal-like behaviors.

Locomotion Types

Phylum Sarcodina: Utilize pseudopodia for amoeboid movement.
Phylum Ciliophora: Characterized by cilia, similar to but shorter than flagella, aiding in movement.
Phylum Zoomastigina: Move via whip-like flagella.
Phylum Sporozoa: Have an apical complex structure, facilitating their unique type of movement.

Nutritional Modes

Protozoa are heterotrophic, meaning they ingest or absorb organic material for nourishment.
In contrast, algae (plant-like protists) are autotrophic and use photosynthesis.

Reproduction

Common asexual reproduction method is binary fission, where the organism divides into two.
Other asexual reproduction methods include budding and schizogony.
Some protozoa can also reproduce sexually.

Tissue Differentiation

Protozoa lack tissue differentiation and exist as single-celled organisms.
They inhabit diverse environments and can be free-living or parasitic.
Infections caused by protozoa can vary from asymptomatic to severe, depending on the species and host.

Test your knowledge on protozoa with these flashcards. This quiz covers important definitions and classifications, including whether protozoa are prokaryotic or eukaryotic and their cellular structure. Perfect for biology students seeking to understand the basics of these fascinating microorganisms.