The pseudopodia of Amoeba are locomotory organelles. These are tipped ...
The correct answer is option 'C' - Hyaline cap.
Explanation:
Amoeba is a unicellular organism that belongs to the phylum Protozoa. It exhibits a unique mode of locomotion using pseudopodia, which are temporary extensions of the cell membrane and cytoplasm. These pseudopodia play a crucial role in the movement of Amoeba.
Pseudopodia as locomotory organelles:
Pseudopodia are dynamic, finger-like projections that extend from the cell body of Amoeba. They are formed by the localized flow of cytoplasm towards a particular direction. The formation of pseudopodia is driven by the cytoskeletal protein actin, which assembles and disassembles to allow the extension and retraction of these projections.
Role of the hyaline cap:
The tip of the pseudopodium is covered by a clear, hyaline (transparent) cap. This hyaline cap is responsible for sensing the environment and guiding the movement of Amoeba. It helps the organism to detect chemical signals, temperature changes, and mechanical cues present in its surroundings.
The hyaline cap acts as a sensory structure by detecting changes in the external environment. It contains specialized receptor molecules that can bind to specific chemical signals or interact with physical stimuli such as light or temperature. These interactions trigger a response within the Amoeba, leading to the extension or retraction of the pseudopodia in a particular direction.
The movement of Amoeba:
When Amoeba senses a favorable environment or a source of food, the hyaline cap initiates the extension of pseudopodia towards that direction. The cytoplasmic flow is directed towards the tip of the pseudopodium, causing it to extend and form a temporary attachment with the substrate. The rest of the cell then follows the movement of the pseudopodium, resulting in the locomotion of Amoeba.
Once the Amoeba has reached its destination or captured its prey, the pseudopodia retract, and the organism resumes its rounded shape. This process of extension and retraction of pseudopodia allows Amoeba to move in a manner known as amoeboid movement.
In conclusion, the pseudopodia of Amoeba are locomotory organelles that enable its movement. The tip of these pseudopodia is covered by a hyaline cap, which serves as a sensory structure, allowing Amoeba to detect and respond to changes in its environment.
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