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Prokaryotic CellsCells that lack a membrane-bound nucleus are called prokaryotes (from the Greek meaning before nuclei). These cells have few internal structures that are distinguishable under a microscope. Cells in the monera kingdom such as bacteria and cyanobacteria (also known as blue-green algae) are prokaryotes.

Prokaryotic cells differ significantly from eukaryotic cells. They don't have a membrane-bound nucleus and instead of having chromosomal DNA, their genetic information is in a circular loop called a plasmid. Bacterial cells are very small, roughly the size of an animal mitochondrion (about 1-2µm in diameter and 10 µm long). Prokaryotic cells feature three major shapes: rod shaped, spherical, and spiral. Instead of going through elaborate replication processes like eukaryotes, bacterial cells divide by binary fission.

Diagram of a prokaryotic cell. Notice the internal organelles are not easily distinguishable.

Bacteria perform many important functions on earth. They serve as decomposers, agents of fermentation, and play an important role in our own digestive system. Also, bacteria are involved in many nutrient cycles such as the nitrogen cycle, which restores nitrate into the soil for plants. Unlike eukaryotic cells that depend on oxygen for their metabolism, prokaryotic cells enjoy a diverse array of metabolic functions. For example, some bacteria use sulfur instead of oxygen in their metabolism.

Examples of Prokaryotic Cells

Copyright Daniel Kunkel

Copyright Daniel Kunkel

Copyright Daniel Kunkel

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Related Questions

What organism is unicellular and prokaryotic?

All prokaryotic organisms are unicellular. Eukaryotic organisms are multicellular


What are 'prokaryotic organisms' What are some examples?

Bacteria and viruses are examples of prokaryotic organisms.


What is a small one celled organism called?

A small one-celled organism is called a microorganism or a single-celled organism. Examples include bacteria, archaea, and some protists.


How does a eukaryotic organism differ from a prokaryotic organism?

The cells of a prokaryotic organism do not have nuclei


How does eukaryotic organism differ from a prokaryotic organism?

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What are some statements that correctly describes a single-celled organism?

A single-celled organism consists of a single cell performing all necessary functions for survival. They can be prokaryotic or eukaryotic. Examples include bacteria and some types of algae.


Is an epidermis layer a prokaryotic organism?

No, an epidermis layer is not a prokaryotic organism. It is a part of the integumentary system.


Is a unicellular organism a prokaryotic or eukaryotic cell?

A unicellular organism can be either prokaryotic or eukaryotic. Prokaryotes lack a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotes have both. Examples of unicellular prokaryotes include bacteria, while examples of unicellular eukaryotes include protists like amoebas.


What is an Organism without a nuclear membrane?

An organism without a nuclear membrane is classified as prokaryotic. These organisms lack a defined nucleus and their genetic material is typically found in the cytoplasm in a region called the nucleoid. Examples of prokaryotic organisms include bacteria and archaea.


Which is a prokaryotic organism?

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Is the organism multicellular and is it prokaryotic or eukaryotic?

The organism is multicellular and eukaryotic.


A paramecium is a multicellular prokaryotic organism?

no