Which specialized carbohydrate is used in the exoskeletons of shrimp?

• A. Glycogen
• B. Chitin
• C. Glucagon
• D. Cellulose

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the context of the question. The problem is asking about a specialized carbohydrate found in the exoskeletons of shrimp, which is a structural component.
2. Step 2: Recall the function of each carbohydrate listed in the options. Glycogen is a storage carbohydrate in animals, glucagon is a hormone, cellulose is a structural carbohydrate in plants, and chitin is a structural carbohydrate found in the exoskeletons of arthropods like shrimp.
3. Step 3: Focus on the structural role of carbohydrates in organisms. Chitin is specifically known for its role in forming the tough, protective exoskeletons of arthropods, including shrimp.
4. Step 4: Compare chitin to cellulose. Both are structural carbohydrates, but cellulose is found in plants, while chitin is found in arthropods and fungi.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the specialized carbohydrate used in the exoskeletons of shrimp is chitin, based on its structural function and presence in arthropods.