Final answer:
Euglena is a species within the phylum Euglenozoa, which is part of the supergroup Excavata in the domain Eukarya. It's a versatile protist that possesses photosynthetic capability and has a unique cell structure. Classification in the Protista domain is complex due to diverse genetic relationships.
Step-by-step explanation:
Euglena, a protozoan, belongs to the phylum Euglenozoa within the supergroup Excavata in the domain Eukarya. Euglenozoa includes diverse species such as parasites, heterotrophs, autotrophs, and mixotrophs, among which Euglena is a mixotrophic species. These organisms show versatility by displaying a photosynthetic capability only when light is present, sensed via their 'eyespot.'
The flexibility and movement of Euglena are due to a tough pellicle composed of protein bands attached to the cytoskeleton. This particular structure provides a specific shape to the cell, making it distinct within the protist kingdom.
It's worth noting that classification within the kingdom Protista is challenging and has evolved over time, with many species reclassified based on recent genetic data. This has resulted in the formation of 'supergroups' within the domain Eukarya, Excavata being one of them.
Learn more about Euglena