Erythrocytes are known as ________

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for another name for erythrocytes, a type of blood cell.

Step 2: Explain the concept The word parts help you remember it:

• Erythro- comes from the Greek word for "red"
• -cyte means "cell"

So erythrocyte = red cell.

The main blood cells are: | Cell type | Other name | Function | |---|---|---| | Erythrocytes | Red blood cells | Carry oxygen using haemoglobin | | Leucocytes | White blood cells | Defend the body against infection | | Thrombocytes | Platelets | Help blood to clot |

Step 3: Go through the options

• A. White blood cell: This is the leucocyte, not the erythrocyte. ❌
• B. Red blood cells: Correct. ✅
• C. Phagocytes: These are white blood cells that engulf germs, such as neutrophils and monocytes. ❌
• D. Leucocytes: Leuco- means "white", so these are white blood cells. ❌

Step 4: Answer Erythrocytes are red blood cells, which is option B.

💡 Exam tip: Link Erythrocyte with Red (think "E-R-ythro = Red"), and Leucocyte with Light/white. Also remember that red blood cells have no nucleus when mature, and they are made in the bone marrow. JAMB often asks about these facts too.