Question Detail
Question
Which one of the following is present in the intestine of termites to digest cellulose?
Correct Answer
Option A is the correct answer.
Detailed Explanation
Termites harbor symbiotic protozoa (such as Trichonympha and other flagellates) in their hindgut that produce cellulase enzymes to digest cellulose. These protozoa break down cellulose into simpler compounds that termites can absorb. Without these symbionts, termites cannot digest wood. Bacteria also play a role, but protozoa are the primary cellulose-digesting symbionts in lower termites.
Hint
These single-celled eukaryotic symbionts produce cellulase to break down wood fibers.