[Campbell Biology P.164] Which of the following statements about the microtubule arrangement... | Practice Question

Which of the following statements about the microtubule arrangement in motile cilia/flagella and basal bodies is correct?

  • A: Motile cilia and flagella typically exhibit a "9 + 2" microtubule arrangement, while basal bodies have a "9 + 0" pattern.
  • B: Both motile cilia/flagella and basal bodies have a "9 + 2" microtubule arrangement.
  • C: Nonmotile primary cilia are characterized by a "9 + 2" pattern, unlike motile cilia.
  • D: The "9 + 0" pattern in basal bodies refers to nine single microtubules arranged in a ring.

Explanation

The text states that nearly all eukaryotic flagella and motile cilia have a "9 + 2" pattern nine doublets, two singles . Basal bodies are described as similar to centrioles, with microtubule triplets in a "9 + 0" pattern. Nonmotile primary cilia also have a "9 + 0" pattern, lacking the central pair.