Question

The excretory structures of flatworms/ Taenia are

• A. flame cells
• B. protonephridia
• C. malpighian tubules
• D. green glands.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The question asks about the excretory structures found in flatworms, specifically Taenia, a genus of tapeworms. Let's evaluate each option to determine the correct answer:

1. Flame cells: These are specialized cells that function in excretion and osmoregulation. They are part of the protonephridial system typically found in flatworms such as planarians and tapeworms (like Taenia). They help remove metabolic waste and maintain fluid balance by using ciliary movement to propel waste out of the organism. Thus, this is the correct answer.
2. Protonephridia: A network of tubules with ciliated structures that primarily function for excretion in various organisms, including flatworms. Flame cells are the basic functional and structural units of protonephridia, hence this is related but not the specific answer we are looking for in terms of structures.
3. Malpighian tubules: These are excretory structures found in most arthropods, such as insects and arachnids, not in flatworms. They operate by absorbing waste products from the hemolymph. Therefore, this option is incorrect for flatworms.
4. Green glands: Excretory organs found in some crustaceans like crabs and crayfish. They serve a similar function as kidneys by removing waste products from the blood, but they are not found in flatworms. Hence, this is not applicable either.

From the above analysis, it is clear that the excretory structures of flatworms, specifically Taenia, are flame cells. This structure is crucial for their excretory and osmoregulatory functions.