Protists

What is zygotic meiosis?

A type of meiosis where the zygote is the only diploid cell, which undergoes meiosis to form haploid spores or gametes.

What characterizes gametic meiosis?

It occurs in organisms where the gametes are the only haploid stage of the life cycle.

Define sporic meiosis.

A type of meiosis that involves alternation of generations, featuring both diploid (sporophyte) and haploid (gametophyte) stages.

What are the two main layers of the cytoplasm in protists?

Ectoplasm (gel-like/firm outer layer) and endoplasm (more fluid-like inner layer).

What is the function of the food/phagocytic vacuole in protists?

It is used for the digestion of ingested food.

What is the role of the contractile/water vacuole in protists?

Helps in osmoregulation.

What processes are chloroplasts and mitochondria involved in?

Photosynthesis and cellular respiration.

What structure in protists detects light?

The eye spot or stigma.

What is the function of a flagellum?

A whip-like structure for locomotion.

How do pseudopodia function in protists?

Used for movement and feeding.

What role do cilia play in protists?

They are hair-like structures used for movement and feeding.

What is the oral groove or cytostome used for?

It is a mouth-like structure for feeding.

What is a pellicle in protists?

A protective outer covering that can be proteinaceous or cellulose-based.

Describe a typical method of asexual reproduction in protists.

Typically through binary fission.

What does syngamy involve in sexual reproduction?

The fusion of gametes.

What are the two types of syngamy?

Autogamy (within one individual) and conjugation (between individuals).

What is encystment in protists?

The formation of cysts to survive adverse conditions.

What is the benefit of encystment for protists?

It protects against environmental changes and aids in nuclear reorganization/reproduction.

What is excystment?

The process of returning to an active state when favorable conditions return.

How do phytoplankton contribute to the carbon cycle?

They absorb CO2 during photosynthesis and convert it to Calcium Carbonate during calcification.

What are harmful algal blooms (HABs) and what causes them?

Blooms caused by phytoplankton species that can release toxins and harm ecosystems.

What environmental factors contribute to red tides?

Rainy weather, low salinity, high nutrient runoff, and warm conditions.

What is one use of algin derived from algae?

Used as a food stabilizer, in drug delivery capsules, and moisturizers.

In microbiological work, what is agar primarily used for?

As microbiological media and a food thickener.

What is a unique characteristic of diatoms?

They have a two-piece silica cell wall (frustule) with intricate patterns.

How is Toxoplasmosis transmitted?

By ingestion of oocysts from contaminated meat or cat feces.

What are potential consequences of Toxoplasmosis infection?

Congenital infections leading to birth defects or death.

What is the definitive host for Toxoplasma gondii?

Cats, where sexual reproduction occurs.

What are the reservoirs for Toxoplasma gondii?

Rodents and birds.

What is the standard treatment for Toxoplasmosis?

Pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine.

How is Toxoplasmosis diagnosed?

Through serological testing of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or serum.