Which one of the following is a characteristic feature of Chrysophytes?

Options

A. They are parasitie forms which cause disease in animals
B. They have a protein rich layer called pellicle
C. They are commonly called diatoms
D. They are saprophytie protists

Answer

To determine the characteristic feature of Chrysophytes, we will analyze each of the given statements one by one.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Chrysophytes**:
- Chrysophytes, also known as golden algae, include organisms like diatoms and are primarily found in aquatic environments.

2. **Evaluating Statement A**:
- The statement claims that Chrysophytes are parasite forms that cause disease in animals.
- This is incorrect as this characteristic is associated with Sporozoans, not Chrysophytes.

3. **Evaluating Statement B**:
- The statement mentions that they have a protein-rich layer called Pelicle.
- This is also incorrect because the Pelicle is a feature of Euglenoids, not Chrysophytes.

4. **Evaluating Statement C**:
- The statement states that they are commonly called diatoms.
- This is correct. Chrysophytes are indeed referred to as diatoms, which are significant producers in aquatic ecosystems and contribute to diatomaceous earth due to their silica-based cell walls.

5. **Evaluating Statement D**:
- The statement claims that they are saprophyte protists.
- This is incorrect as saprophytic protists are typically slime molds, not Chrysophytes.

6. **Conclusion**:
- After evaluating all statements, the only correct characteristic feature of Chrysophytes is that they are commonly called diatoms.

### Final Answer:
The characteristic feature of Chrysophytes is: **C. They are commonly called diatoms.**

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