Which protist reproduces both by binary fission and conjugation

Options

A. Amoeba
B. Paramecium
C. Euglena
D. Monocystic.

Answer

To determine which protist reproduces both by binary fission and conjugation, we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand Binary Fission
Binary fission is an asexual mode of reproduction where an organism divides into two identical daughter cells. Each daughter cell is a clone of the parent, containing the same genetic material (DNA).

### Step 2: Identify Examples of Binary Fission
Common examples of protists that reproduce by binary fission include:
- Amoeba
- Paramecium
- Euglena

### Step 3: Understand Conjugation
Conjugation is a sexual mode of reproduction that involves two organisms temporarily coming together to exchange genetic material. This process is different from binary fission as it introduces genetic diversity.

### Step 4: Identify Examples of Conjugation
Among the protists, conjugation is primarily observed in Paramecium. Amoeba and Euglena do not reproduce through conjugation; they only reproduce asexually via binary fission.

### Step 5: Conclude with the Correct Answer
Since Paramecium is the only protist that reproduces by both binary fission (asexual reproduction) and conjugation (sexual reproduction), the correct answer to the question is Paramecium.

### Final Answer:
The protist that reproduces both by binary fission and conjugation is **Paramecium**.

---