JAMB 2013 Biology · Question 38
The organ which is sensitive to light in Euglena is the
Options
- A.gullet
- B.flagellum
- C.chloroplast
- D.eyespot
Answer: D. eyespot
Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key
1. Analyze the question The question asks which part of Euglena detects light. Euglena is a unicellular, flagellated organism found in ponds and stagnant water. It photosynthesizes like a plant but can also move like an animal.
2. Explain the concept Each structure in Euglena has a specific job:
- Gullet (A): A canal-like depression at the anterior end. The flagellum arises from it, and it is also associated with the contractile vacuole. It is not light-sensitive.
- Flagellum (B): A whip-like structure used for locomotion. It moves the organism toward light but does not detect it.
- Chloroplast (C): Contains chlorophyll and carries out photosynthesis. It uses light but does not sense it.
- Eyespot / stigma (D): A red pigmented spot near the base of the flagellum. It is photosensitive, so it detects the direction and intensity of light.
3. Show the solution
- The question says "sensitive to light", which means detection, not use of light.
- Detection is done by the eyespot (stigma).
- The eyespot helps Euglena move toward favourable light, a response called phototaxis. The flagellum then carries out the movement.
4. Answer The correct option is D. eyespot.
5. Exam tip Link each structure to its function:
- Eyespot → Eyes → detects light
- Flagellum → Forward movement
- Chloroplast → Creates food (photosynthesis)
- Gullet → entrance or canal at the front
If a question uses words like "sensitive to" or "detects", think of a receptor. If it says "uses light to make food", think of chloroplast.
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