Based on the description provided, the organism feeding on the rotting log sample is most likely a fungus-like protist. Here's why:
1. The description mentions that the organism was eukaryotic and could not photosynthesize. Fungi are eukaryotic organisms that obtain nutrients by decomposing organic matter, such as rotting logs, through a process called saprotrophic nutrition. Unlike plants, fungi do not photosynthesize but rely on external food sources.
2. The presence of a cell wall in the organism is another characteristic that aligns with fungi. Fungi have cell walls made of chitin, a structural component that provides support and protection to the cells. This feature distinguishes fungi from other eukaryotic organisms like animals or protists.
3. Plant-like protists and animal-like protists are less likely to be feeding on the rotting log sample since plant-like protists would typically photosynthesize and animal-like protists are more associated with consuming other organisms rather than decomposing organic matter.
Therefore, based on the information provided, the most suitable answer would be C. fungus-like protist.
