Question

The method of dispersal in Amoeba is
A. Locomotion
B. Sporulation
C. Encystment
D. Binary fission

Answer 1

Dispersal is defined as the movement of animals or seeds or spores from one place to another. Dispersal differs for different species and is undertaken to maintain a population and genetic flow, survive unfavourable climatic conditions or for distribution of a certain species. Dispersal in Amoeba takes place to avoid unfavourable climatic conditions.

Complete answer:
Amoeba is a single celled organism. It belongs to the family Amoebidae. The common organism belonging to this genus is Amoeba proteus.
Option (a) is incorrect. Amoeba locomotes through extension of pseudopodia. They are temporary structures formed by movements of the cell cytoplasm. It is not a method of dispersal.
Option (b) is incorrect. Sporulation is the process of forming spores that preserve the genetic material of organisms. The spores are covered by a hard surface and are known to withstand extreme temperature conditions. Sporulation is very common in bacteria.
Option (c) is correct. Encystment is the method of dispersal in Amoeba. During unfavourable conditions, the organism encloses itself in a protective covering. The process is known as Encystment. During the process, Amoeba resorbs its cilia and flagella and transforms into a spherical entity. The cyst wall is secreted by the Golgi apparatus present in the cytoplasm. The Amoeba cyst can be carried to different places by wind, which are reactivated under favourable conditions.
Option (d) is incorrect. Binary fission is a process of asexual reproduction in Amoeba. The organism first duplicates its genetic material, following which the cell divides into two daughter cells. The daughter cells are equal in size.

So, the correct answer is option C.

Note: Dispersal in animals is a means to survive unfavourable climatic conditions, transport from one breeding site to another or simply move from one place to another in order to establish new populations. Dispersal in Amoeba takes place by a process called encystment. The organism covers itself with a covering secreted by its Golgi apparatus and remains in a dormant stage. The Amoeba cysts can be transported by winds. The cysts are reactivated and continue with life under favourable climatic conditions.