Which type of Protist absorbs food through a membrane?

The correct response identifies the zooflagellates, a group of protozoans that utilize a unique method for feeding. These organisms have flagella that aid in movement and can also assist in the absorption of nutrients through their cell membranes. Unlike some other protists that may ingest food through phagocytosis or photosynthesize, zooflagellates simplify the process by directly absorbing dissolved organic material from their environment.

In contrast, algae predominantly perform photosynthesis and serve as producers in ecosystems, whereas slime molds are more complex organisms that can exist in both unicellular and multicellular forms and typically feed on decaying organic material. While all protozoans are single-celled eukaryotes, the characteristic absorption through membranes specifically points to zooflagellates, distinguishing them from the other groups listed.