What is correct about the function of a pseudopod
A pseudopod is a temporary protrusion or extension of the cell membrane used for locomotion and feeding in certain cells, particularly in amoebas and some other protists.
One correct function of a pseudopod is locomotion. By extending and retracting pseudopods, a cell can move in its environment. This is especially important for amoeboid cells, which lack other means of propulsion such as cilia or flagella. The pseudopods allow the cell to "crawl" towards a desired location or to avoid unfavorable conditions.
Another correct function of a pseudopod is feeding. Some cells, such as amoebas, use pseudopods to capture food particles. They extend a pseudopod around the particle, enclosing it within a temporary membrane bubble called a food vacuole. This allows the cell to engulf and digest the food.
Overall, the function of a pseudopod is to facilitate movement and feeding in certain cells, particularly unicellular organisms like amoebas.
A pseudopod is a temporary, finger-like extension of the cell membrane in certain organisms. It allows the cell to move or capture prey. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of its function:
1. Formation: The pseudopod forms as a result of the rearrangement and expansion of the cytoskeleton and the cell membrane.
2. Extension: The pseudopod extends outward in the direction of movement or prey.
3. Adhesion: The pseudopod adheres to the substrate or captures the prey by creating a temporary attachment.
4. Grip: The pseudopod exerts force on the surface it is attached to, allowing the cell to anchor itself or manipulate the prey.
5. Contraction or retraction: Once the cell has moved or captured the prey, the pseudopod can contract or retract, pulling the cell body forward or pulling the captured prey toward the cell.
6. Disassembly: After its function is complete, the pseudopod disassembles, reabsorbing the membrane and cytoskeleton components, allowing the cell to undergo another cycle of pseudopod formation and function.
Note: It is worth mentioning that pseudopods are primarily observed in single-celled organisms such as amoebas and immune cells like macrophages, where they aid in cell movement (locomotion) and the capture of food particles or pathogens.