Chapter 19, Problem 17A

Summary Introduction

To write:

The reason why termites die when their symbiotic flagellates die.

Introduction:

Flagellates are the organisms that possess flagella. The flagellum is a long whip or thread-like structure that is generally seen in plant-like protists. Flagella are generally present in one or two in numbers and help in the movement of the organism. It also acts as a sensory structure to sense the changes in the surrounding environment. 

Explanation of Solution

A symbiotic relationship is seen among organisms that live together and benefit each other in one way or the other. A symbiotic relationship between flagellates and termites is also seen. Flagellates live in the gut of termites where they can survive and flourish effectively. Flagellates on the other hand help termites by secreting cellulase enzyme.

Termites generally feed on wood but do not have any enzyme to degrade the cellulose present in the wood. The cellulase secreted by flagellates digests the cellulose present in wood and thus help the termite absorb nutrients from it.

In conditions when flagellates living in the gut of termites die, the cellulose will no longer be digested and the termite will not get any nutrient or energy. This will result in starvation and ultimately the termite also dies. 

Conclusion

Termites are dependent on flagellates for cellulase enzyme that act as the driving force of death of a termite in cases when the symbiotic flagellate dies. Cellulase is an essential enzyme for the degradation of cellulose in woods and termites are unable to synthesize it.