What is the structure and function of a pseudopod?

Question

What is the structure and function  of a pseudopod?

Emma Arvizu · Accepted Answer

Pseudopodia(Singular = pseudopod) also known as 'false feet 'are extensions of cytoplasm which are created in order to aid motion of organism i.e ameoba.

Structure:
These are temporary cytoplasmic projections and can appear for sometime and disappear at another. So, these don't have any specific structure.

Function:
These provide help in motility and are also used as a tool for capturing prey and phagocytosis.

Hope it helps...

Hudson Ansley · Answer

undefined A pseudopod is a temporary protrusion of the cell membrane used for locomotion and feeding in certain unicellular organisms, such as amoebas. It is formed by cytoplasmic streaming, where the cytoplasm flows into the protrusion, extending the cell forward. Pseudopods can also engulf food particles through a process called phagocytosis.

HIX Tutor · Answer

undefined Great question! Let’s break it down step by step.

1. **What is a pseudopod?**  
   A pseudopod is a temporary, arm-like part of a cell.

2. **What is its structure?**  
   - It is made of the cell's cytoplasm (the jelly-like fluid inside a cell).
   - It can change shape, stretching out to form a "foot."

3. **What is its function?**  
   - **Movement:** The cell can move by extending the pseudopod.
   - **Eating:** It helps the cell grab food by surrounding it, then pulling it in.

4. **Which cells use pseudopods?**  
   Mostly found in some types of tiny living things called protozoa, like amoebas.

Why do you think a cell needs to have pseudopods?