The function of the undulating membrane in Trypanosoma is _______.A. To increase the area of absorptionB. To help in movement in viscous bloodC. To catch the foodD. None of the above.

The correct answer is B. To help in movement in viscous blood.

Explanation:

Trypanosoma is a parasitic protozoan that lives in the bloodstream of its host, where the environment is viscous due to the nature of blood. The undulating membrane is a thin, wavy extension of the cell membrane that works in conjunction with the flagellum. This structure enables the organism to move efficiently through the viscous medium.

Here’s how it functions:

Movement in Viscous Medium: The undulating membrane generates wave-like motions that assist the flagellum in propelling the organism forward or backward. This adaptation helps Trypanosoma navigate through the blood of its host.

Energy Efficiency: The combined action of the undulating membrane and the flagellum reduces the energy required for movement in a dense medium.

Thus, the undulating membrane is specifically adapted to facilitate locomotion in the viscous environment of the host's blood.