Question Detail
Question
The primary function of the contractile vacuole in freshwater protozoa is to:
Correct Answer
Option B is the correct answer.
Detailed Explanation
The text states, 'The contractile vacuole collects this excess water (often through a system of feeder canals, as in Paramecium) and periodically expels it to the outside through a temporary or permanent pore, thereby preventing the cell from bursting.' This highlights its osmoregulatory role.
Hint
Consider the environment freshwater protozoa live in and the problem osmosis would create for them.