Multiple choice

Which among the following statements does not characterise diatoms?

  1. Araphid pennate diatoms are capable of gliding movement.

  2. The daughter cell that receives the original epitheca remains of the same size as the parent.

  3. The most common mode of reproduction in diatoms is asexual by cell division.

  4. The epicingulum and hypocingulum are collectively known as the girdle.

  5. The frustule is frequently in a high state of differentiation in diatoms.

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A Correct answer
Explanation

Raphid pennate diatoms are capable of gliding movement that is caused by the secretion of mucopolysaccharides, derived from vesicles or crystalline bodies, through the raphe. Araphid pennate diatoms lack a raphe and posses a central, unornamented area known as the sternum or pseudoraphe. No centric diatom has a raphe.