Question

Members of the Nostoc genus have large numbers of thylakoid membranes, and many have gas vesicles. What statement is also most likely true about Nostoc?

A. They are photosynthetic cyanobacteria.
B. They are parasitic fungi.
C. They are anaerobic archaea.
D. They are non-photosynthetic algae

Answer 1

Nostoc species are photosynthetic cyanobacteria with structures for photosynthesis and nitrogen fixation, playing a vital role in ecosystems.

Step-by-step explanation:

Members of the Nostoc genus are most likely to be photosynthetic cyanobacteria. This is because they have large numbers of thylakoid membranes, which contain chlorophyll and proteins for the light reactions of photosynthesis. These structures are characteristic of cyanobacteria and are similar to the photosynthetic apparatus found in plants. Cyanobacteria like Nostoc are also known for their ability to fix nitrogen, an essential process for converting atmospheric nitrogen into forms usable by living organisms. With their capacity for nitrogen fixation and oxygenic photosynthesis, Nostoc species make crucial contributions to ecosystems and have significant ecological roles.