What type of microorganism possesses both plant and animal characteristics?

The correct answer is fungi. Fungi are unique microorganisms that display characteristics of both plants and animals. Like plants, they have cell walls made of chitin, which distinguishes them from cells of animals and other microorganisms. Fungi are also heterotrophic, meaning they obtain their nutrients by absorbing organic matter, similar to animals. They cannot perform photosynthesis, a key characteristic of true plants.

This duality in nutritional habits and structural composition allows fungi to play integral roles in various ecosystems as decomposers, while also forming symbiotic relationships with plants, such as mycorrhizae. Understanding these unique properties helps clarify the ecological functions of fungi, distinguishing them from other microorganisms that lean more toward either plant-like or animal-like characteristics without exhibiting both.

The other choices represent different categories of microorganisms that do not exhibit this blend of traits. For example, viruses are not considered living organisms, as they cannot replicate independently or carry out metabolic processes. Bacteria are prokaryotic organisms with a simpler structure compared to fungi and do not possess plant characteristics. Protozoa are primarily animal-like microorganisms and typically do not have any plant characteristics. This highlights the unique classification of fungi within the larger context of microorganisms.