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What is the function of contractile vacuoles in single-celled organisms?
publish date: 2026/06/15 21:25:13.509364 UTC
volume_mute
Some single-celled organisms possess a specialized type of vacuole not found in typical plant or animal cells.
What is the primary function of contractile vacuoles?
Correct Answer
Expelling excess water and waste from the cell
Explanation
Contractile vacuoles are found in some single-celled organisms (such as Paramecium) and are important in expelling excess water and waste from the cell. They rhythmically contract to pump water out, preventing the cell from swelling and bursting due to continuous osmotic water influx.
Reference
Biology: A Self-Teaching Guide