Define Eukaryotes?

Eukaryotes are organisms whose cells have a true nucleus, as well as membrane-bound organelles such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus. Eukaryotes include plants, animals, fungi, and protists.

Eukaryotes

Eukaryotes are organisms whose cells contain a true nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. They are one of the two primary domains of life, the other being prokaryotes.

Key Features:

- Nucleus: The nucleus is a membrane-bound compartment that houses the cell's genetic material (DNA) in the form of chromosomes.
- Membrane-bound organelles: Eukaryotes have specialized organelles that perform specific functions, including:
- Endoplasmic reticulum (ER)
- Golgi apparatus
- Mitochondria
- Chloroplasts (in plant cells)
- Cytoskeleton: Composed of proteins, the cytoskeleton provides structural support and facilitates cell movement.
- Multicellularity: Many eukaryotes are multicellular organisms, with cells specializing in different functions to form complex tissues and organs.

Classification:

Eukaryotes are further classified into four kingdoms based on their nutritional mode and presence or absence of cell walls:

- Animalia: Heterotrophic, lack cell walls
- Plantae: Autotrophic, have cell walls
- Fungi: Heterotrophic, have cell walls and absorb nutrients from their surroundings
- Protista: Eurykaryotic organisms that do not fit into the other kingdoms

Significance:

Eukaryotes are the most complex and diverse group of organisms on Earth, including:

- Animals (from insects to mammals)
- Plants (from algae to giant trees)
- Fungi (yeast, mushrooms)
- Protists (diatoms, amoebas)
- Complex single-celled organisms, such as ciliates and paramecia