The excretory product in protozoans is
- A. Amino acid
- B. Uric acid
- C. Ammonia
- D. Urea
Correct Answer: Option C
Explanation
Protozoans are eukaryotic organisms with only one cell. They are part of the kingdom Protista. They live in both water and land environments and are an important part of the food chain because they are the main food source for many higher organisms. Like all living things, protozoans need to get rid of the waste products made by their metabolism. Ammonia (NH3) is the main waste product of protozoans.
Ammonia is made when amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins, are broken down. Ammonia is made when the amino group (-NH2) is taken off of amino acid during protein breakdown. Since ammonia dissolves easily in water and is poisonous, it must be eliminated from the body to keep cells healthy.
Protozoans get rid of waste using different organelles and structures, such as contractile vacuoles, plasma membranes, and organelles that are just for getting rid of waste. Contractile vacuoles are very important for osmoregulation and getting rid of waste, like ammonia. Through the process of exocytosis, these vacuoles take in extra water and waste from the cytoplasm, get bigger, and then send their contents outside the cell.
Because they live in water, it’s not too hard for aquatic protozoans to get rid of ammonia. Ammonia can move easily through the plasma membrane and out into the water around it. Terrestrial protozoans also make ammonia, but they have to deal with the problems of conserving water and keeping the osmotic balance.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, ammonia excretion is crucial for the survival of protozoans, as it helps them maintain cellular homeostasis and avoid the toxic effects of accumulated waste products.