Question

Name the method by which Amoeba and Leishmania reproduce. Write a major difference in the way they divide to produce new individuals.

Hint:

Both Amoeba and Leishmania reproduce by binary fission, but in Leishmania, the division of cytoplasm is delayed compared to Amoeba.

Answer 1

Both Amoeba and Leishmania use binary fission for reproduction, though the specific method differs: - Amoeba: Amoeba's binary fission is straightforward: the cell extends, the nucleus splits, and the cell divides into two identical daughter cells. This involves nucleus division followed by cytoplasm division. - Leishmania: Leishmania, a parasitic protozoan, also reproduces via binary fission. Unlike Amoeba, Leishmania undergoes longitudinal fission. The parent cell elongates, the nucleus splits in two, but cytoplasm division happens later. Daughter cells often stay linked by a small cytoplasmic bridge before separating. Key Distinction: The primary difference concerns cytoplasmic division: - In Amoeba, cytoplasmic division coincides with nuclear division. - In Leishmania, the cytoplasm divides later, and daughter cells briefly remain connected.