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Questions and Answers
Why were protozoans historically regarded as 'one-celled animals'?
Why were protozoans historically regarded as 'one-celled animals'?
What is the meaning of the word 'protozoa'?
What is the meaning of the word 'protozoa'?
Why did the classification of protozoa as a class within the Animalia become no longer justifiable?
Why did the classification of protozoa as a class within the Animalia become no longer justifiable?
What is a key characteristic of protozoa?
What is a key characteristic of protozoa?
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How are protozoa classified in a loose way?
How are protozoa classified in a loose way?
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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.
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Description
Test your knowledge of single-celled eukaryotes with this quiz on protozoa. Explore the diversity, behaviors, and ecological roles of these fascinating microorganisms.
