5 Questions
Why were protozoans historically regarded as 'one-celled animals'?
Due to their animal-like behaviors and lack of cell wall
What is the meaning of the word 'protozoa'?
First animals
Why did the classification of protozoa as a class within the Animalia become no longer justifiable?
It failed to meet the standards of being monophyletic and holophyletic
What is a key characteristic of protozoa?
Feeding on organic matter
How are protozoa classified in a loose way?
As single-celled protists that feed by heterotrophy
Study Notes
Protozoa: Historical Context and Characteristics
- Protozoans were historically regarded as 'one-celled animals' because they were thought to be single-celled organisms that possess animal-like characteristics.
- The word 'protozoa' is derived from the Greek words 'protos' meaning 'first' and 'zoon' meaning 'animal', indicating that they were considered to be the most primitive or earliest forms of animal life.
- The classification of protozoa as a class within the Animalia became no longer justifiable because they were found to be a diverse group of organisms that exhibit both plant-like and animal-like characteristics, making it difficult to categorize them as solely animals.
- A key characteristic of protozoa is that they are eukaryotic, meaning their cells have a true nucleus, and are typically microscopic in size.
- Protozoa are classified in a loose way, often being grouped into several categories, including flagellates, amoebas, ciliates, and sporozoa, based on their morphology, movement, and mode of nutrition.
Test your knowledge of single-celled eukaryotes with this quiz on protozoa. Explore the diversity, behaviors, and ecological roles of these fascinating microorganisms.
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