Chapter 17.3, Problem 1NV

Summary Introduction

To determine:

Definition of the terms bacteria, archaea, Protist and fungus.

Explanation of Solution

Bacteria are the microscopic organism. They are prokaryotic and they lack a true nucleus. They are very primitive and known to have existed since starting of life on earth.

Archaea is a group of single-celled prokaryotic organisms that do not have a membrane-bound organelle. They have special abilities to survive in extreme conditions.

Protists are a unicellular prokaryotic organism, that does not fit under other kingdoms. These organisms are heterotrophic and many of them have flagella and cilia for mobility. Unicellular algae, protozoa and slime belong to this category.

Fungus is the heterotrophic spore, producing eukaryotic organisms. They lack chlorophyll and include molds smuts, mildews, rusts, etc. Some of them act as decomposers and some of them are parasitic.