Which of the following microorganisms lacks its own metabolic pathways and can only reproduce inside a host cell?

Rationale

Viruses lack their own metabolic pathways and can only reproduce inside a host cell.

Viruses are acellular entities, composed of genetic material (either DNA or RNA) enveloped in a protein coat. They do not have their own metabolic machinery and therefore, rely on the host cell's metabolic pathways to reproduce. This distinguishes them from other microorganisms like bacteria and protozoa, which can replicate independently.

A (Bacteria) YOUR ANSWER

Bacteria are prokaryotic microorganisms that possess their own metabolic pathways and are capable of reproducing independently. They do not require a host cell for their survival or replication, which makes them different from viruses.

B (Viruses) CORRECT

Viruses are the correct answer, they lack their own metabolic pathways and rely on the host cell's machinery to reproduce. They cannot carry out any metabolic function on their own and are entirely reliant on the host cell for survival and replication.

C (Protozoa) YOUR ANSWER

Like bacteria, protozoa are also capable of independent metabolism and reproduction. They are a diverse group of unicellular eukaryotic organisms that can exist as free-living entities or as parasites. Despite their parasitic lifestyle in some instances, they do not rely on a host cell for reproduction in the same way viruses do.

D (Muscle) YOUR ANSWER

Muscle is not a microorganism, but rather a type of tissue found in animals. It is composed of cells that have the ability to contract, enabling movement. It is not capable of independent reproduction or metabolism, but this is because it is a tissue, not a microorganism.

Conclusion

Among the options provided, only viruses lack their own metabolic pathways and need to reproduce inside a host cell. Bacteria and protozoa, despite being microorganisms like viruses, have their own metabolic machinery and can reproduce independently. Muscle, on the other hand, is a type of tissue and not a microorganism. Therefore, it does not fall into the same category as the other options.

Which of the following microorganisms lacks its own metabolic pathways and can only reproduce inside a host cell?

Viruses lack their own metabolic pathways and can only reproduce inside a host cell.

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