Why is a protozoan considered animal-like?

• A. Because it forms multicellular colonies
• B. Because it is heterotrophic and lacks a cell wall
• C. Because it performs photosynthesis like plants
• D. Because it has chloroplasts and stores starch

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the term 'protozoan': Protozoans are single-celled eukaryotic organisms that belong to the kingdom Protista. They are often compared to animals due to certain characteristics.
2. Clarify the term 'heterotrophic': Heterotrophic organisms obtain their food by consuming other organisms or organic matter, rather than producing their own food through photosynthesis.
3. Explain the absence of a cell wall: Unlike plants and fungi, protozoans lack a rigid cell wall, which is a characteristic feature of animal cells.
4. Compare protozoans to plants: Protozoans do not perform photosynthesis, lack chloroplasts, and do not store starch, which are typical features of plant-like organisms.
5. Conclude why protozoans are animal-like: Protozoans are considered animal-like because they are heterotrophic and lack a cell wall, which aligns them more closely with animals than plants or fungi.