Question Details

The chloroplast present in Volvox is

Options

A

cup-shaped

B

ribbon-shaped

C

girdle-shaped

D

star-shaped

Correct Answer :

cup-shaped

Solution :

The correct option is cup-shaped.

Let us understand the structure and classification of the chloroplast in Volvox step-by-step:

1. Understanding Volvox:
Volvox is a genus of chlorophyte green algae that forms spherical colonies. Each individual cell within a Volvox colony resembles the unicellular green alga Chlamydomonas in structure and organization.

2. Chloroplast Morphology in Green Algae:
Green algae (Chlorophyceae) exhibit a wide variety of chloroplast shapes, which are key taxonomic features used to distinguish different genera. Some common shapes include:

  • Cup-shaped: Characteristic of Chlamydomonas and Volvox.
  • Ribbon-shaped (or spiral): Characteristic of Spirogyra.
  • Girdle-shaped (or collar-shaped): Characteristic of Ulothrix.
  • Star-shaped (or stellate): Characteristic of Zygnema.

3. Conclusion:
Since the individual vegetative cells of Volvox are structurally similar to Chlamydomonas, they contain a single, large, prominent cup-shaped chloroplast located at the posterior end of each cell. This chloroplast contains one or more pyrenoids, which are involved in starch synthesis and storage.

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