Directions for questions 21 to \(40:\) For each of the following questions, four choices have been provided. Select the correct alternative. Amoeba and Paramoecium come under the kingdom (a) Plantae (b) Protista (c) Monera (d) Fungi

Amoeba and Paramecium are single-celled organisms, also known as protists. They are not plants, animals, bacteria, or fungi.

To identify the right kingdom, we need to understand the characteristics of the kingdoms given in the options. (a) Plantae: This kingdom contains multicellular organisms that are autotrophic, which means they can produce their own food through photosynthesis. Examples include trees, shrubs, and herbs. (b) Protista: This kingdom consists of mostly single-celled eukaryotic organisms that are neither plants, animals, nor fungi. They can be either autotrophic or heterotrophic (organisms that obtain their food from other sources). Examples of protists include algae, diatoms, and protozoa. (c) Monera: This kingdom is comprised of prokaryotic organisms, which means their cells do not have a nucleus. Monera includes bacteria and cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae. (d) Fungi: Fungi are a group of eukaryotic organisms that are heterotrophic and have cell walls made of chitin. Examples include mushrooms, molds, and yeasts.

Since Amoeba and Paramecium are single-celled eukaryotic organisms, neither plants, animals nor fungi, they belong to the kingdom Protista. Hence, the correct alternative is: (b) Protista