Identify the Protist and explain why you think it is what you said.

We took dead leaves from outside, put them in boiling water then looked at them a week later. Link to image below!

LINK: postimg. org/image/gu1201se9

I'm sorry, but as an AI text-based bot, I am not able to access external links or view images. However, I can still guide you on how to identify protists based on your description.

Protists are a diverse group of eukaryotic microorganisms that are not classified as plants, animals, or fungi. They often live in water environments, including ponds, rivers, and even soil. To identify a protist, we need specific characteristics or features seen under a microscope.

By looking at dead leaves that have been soaked in boiling water and left for a week, you might find various microorganisms, including protists. If you have access to a microscope, I would recommend using it to examine a small portion of the leaves. Here are the steps you can follow to identify a protist:

1. Prepare a wet mount slide: Take a small piece of the soaked leaf and place it on a microscope slide. Add a drop of water or a drop of a staining solution (such as methylene blue) to the leaf sample.

2. Observe under a microscope: Place the slide on the microscope stage and start with the lowest magnification objective lens. Focus on the sample and gradually increase the magnification to get a better look at the organisms.

3. Look for protist characteristics: Protists can vary in size, shape, and movement. Look for single-celled organisms that may exhibit features such as flagella (long whip-like tails), cilia (tiny hair-like structures), or pseudopods (temporary cellular extensions used for movement).

4. Take detailed notes: Record the observations you make while viewing the sample. Note the size, shape, and any distinctive characteristics of the organisms you identify.

Based on your observations, comparing the observed features with known protist species will help you in identifying the protist. There are different types of protists, such as amoebas, paramecia, and euglenas, which have unique characteristics. By using a specialized field guide or consulting with a biology expert, you can further refine your identification.

Remember, without examining the image you provided, I am unable to give you a specific identification. However, I hope this explanation helps you in identifying the protist you observed on the dead leaves.