Which of the following organisms belongs to phylum Apicomplexa?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
The correct answer is option 4 i.e. Plasmodium.
Plasmodium belongs to the phylum Apicomplexa. This phylum comprises parasitic protozoans known for their complex life cycles and specialized cell structures for invasion. Plasmodium is responsible for malaria, a serious infectious disease transmitted to humans through the bites of infected Anopheles mosquitoes. The Apicomplexa are characterized by their apical complex, a set of organelles that helps them penetrate host cells. Other notable members of this phylum include Toxoplasma and Cryptosporidium, which also cause various diseases.