______are primitive relative of animals.

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks for the term that refers to primitive relatives of animals. This indicates we are looking for a group of organisms that share a common ancestry or characteristics with animals but are simpler in structure.

2. **Defining Animals**: Animals are multicellular organisms that exhibit various functions such as digestion, respiration, and locomotion. They are complex and have specialized cells and systems.

3. **Identifying Primitive Relatives**: To find the primitive relatives of animals, we need to consider simpler organisms that share some characteristics with animals.

4. **Considering Protozoans**: One group that fits this description is protozoans. Protozoans are single-celled organisms that exhibit some animal-like behaviors, such as movement and feeding. They are considered primitive because they are simpler than multicellular animals.

5. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the correct answer to the question is "protozoans," as they are recognized as primitive relatives of animals due to their single-celled structure and functional similarities.

**Final Answer**: Protozoans are primitive relatives of animals.

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