Which of the following is present in the intestine of termites to digest cellulose?

Correct option is A

The correct answer is (a) Protozoa

Explanation:
• Termites cannot independently digest the cellulose present in wood.
• They host symbiotic flagellated Protozoa (specifically Trichonympha) in their hindgut, which secrete the enzyme cellulase to break down cellulose.

Information Booster:
• This biological relationship is a classic example of mutualism, where both organisms strictly benefit from each other.
• Termites provide a safe habitat and continuous food supply, while protozoa provide essential digestion.

Additional Knowledge:
Yeast (Option b)
• Yeasts are single-celled fungi primarily used in fermentation, not for digesting cellulose in termites.
Bacteria (Option c)
• While some bacteria reside in guts, the primary digester of cellulose in termites is protozoa.
Algae (Option d)
• Algae are autotrophic organisms that perform photosynthesis and are not found in the intestines of insects.
None of the above/More than one of the above (Option e)
• Incorrect, as protozoa accurately fulfills the condition.

So the correct answer is (a)