Question

an individual is infected with a pathogen that absorbs nutrients from its environment. in which category does this pathogen belong?
a. bacteria
b. fungi
c. protozoa
d. virus

Explanation:

• Bacteria can obtain nutrients through various means like photosynthesis (for some) or consuming organic matter.
• Fungi are heterotrophic and absorb nutrients from their environment (they secrete digestive enzymes and then absorb the digested nutrients).
• Protozoa can ingest food particles (e.g., by phagocytosis).
• Viruses are not living in the traditional sense. They do not absorb nutrients; they hijack host cell machinery.

Answer:

B. fungi