Which single-celled marine organism forms calcium carbonate shells called tests?

Study for the IB Marine Science Standard Level Exam. Prepare with interactive quizzes and in-depth explanations. Use our resources to excel in your marine science knowledge!

Multiple Choice

Which single-celled marine organism forms calcium carbonate shells called tests?

Explanation:
Calcium carbonate shells called tests are produced by foraminifera, single-celled marine protists. The test acts as a protective case and is typically built from calcium carbonate, with openings that allow the organism to extend its pseudopodia to feed and interact with the environment. When foraminifera die, their calcareous shells accumulate as sediment and fossilize well, making them important in studying past ocean conditions and climates. Copepods are tiny multicellular crustaceans, angiosperms are flowering plants, and cyanobacteria are photosynthetic bacteria; none form the characteristic calcium carbonate tests like foraminifera do.

Calcium carbonate shells called tests are produced by foraminifera, single-celled marine protists. The test acts as a protective case and is typically built from calcium carbonate, with openings that allow the organism to extend its pseudopodia to feed and interact with the environment. When foraminifera die, their calcareous shells accumulate as sediment and fossilize well, making them important in studying past ocean conditions and climates. Copepods are tiny multicellular crustaceans, angiosperms are flowering plants, and cyanobacteria are photosynthetic bacteria; none form the characteristic calcium carbonate tests like foraminifera do.

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