Which of following statements is correct with respect to slime molds?

Options

A. They are saprophytic , body plasmodium is naked without cell wall , and spore is dispersed by air.
B. They are saprophytic , body plasmodium is with cell wall , and spore is dispersed by water.
C. They are parasitic, body plasmodium is with cell wall and spore is dispersed by water.
D. The are parasitic , body plasmodium is with cell wall and spore is dispersed by water .

Answer

To determine the correct statement regarding slime molds, we need to analyze the characteristics of slime molds and the options provided. Here’s a step-by-step solution:

### Step 1: Understand the Classification of Slime Molds
- Slime molds belong to the kingdom Protista.
- They are eukaryotic organisms, meaning their cells have a nucleus and other organelles.

**Hint:** Remember that slime molds are classified under Protista due to their eukaryotic nature.

### Step 2: Identify the Nature of Slime Molds
- Slime molds are primarily unicellular but can aggregate to form a multicellular structure known as plasmodium.
- The term "mold" is often associated with fungi, but slime molds are distinct in their classification.

**Hint:** Focus on the fact that slime molds can exist as unicellular organisms but can also form aggregates.

### Step 3: Determine the Mode of Nutrition
- Slime molds exhibit saprophytic nutrition, meaning they feed on dead and decaying organic matter.
- They typically grow on decaying twigs and leaves, consuming the organic material.

**Hint:** Saprophytic nutrition is key to understanding how slime molds obtain their food.

### Step 4: Analyze the Structure of Slime Molds
- The plasmodium of slime molds is described as being "naked," which means it does not have a cell wall.
- This structure allows for the movement and absorption of nutrients.

**Hint:** The term "naked plasmodium" indicates the absence of a rigid cell wall, which is important for their function.

### Step 5: Examine the Reproductive Strategy
- Slime molds reproduce by forming spores.
- These spores are dispersed by air currents, allowing them to spread to new locations when conditions are favorable.

**Hint:** Remember that the dispersal of spores is crucial for the survival and propagation of slime molds.

### Step 6: Evaluate the Options
- Based on the characteristics discussed, we can evaluate the options provided in the question.
- The correct statement should reflect the saprophytic nature, the structure of plasmodium, and the mode of spore dispersal.

### Conclusion
- The correct statement regarding slime molds is that they are saprophytic, their plasmodium is naked without a cell wall, and their spores are dispersed by air.

**Final Answer:** The correct statement is that slime molds are saprophytic, their plasmodium is naked without a cell wall, and spores are dispersed by air.