Prokaryotic Cell

Organisms that have prokaryotic cells are unicellular and are called prokaryotes.  A prokaryotic cell 

contains only a single membrane, which surrounds the cell as an outer membrane.

Prokaryotic cells are cells that do not have a true nucleus or membrane-bound organelles. Organisms 

within the domains Bacteria and 

Archaea have prokaryotic cells. However, organisms with prokaryotic cells are abundant and make 

up much of Earth’s biomass. The reactions within a prokaryote, therefore, take place within All of 

the cytoplasms of the cell.

A prokaryote reproduces through binary fission, a process that simply splits duplicated DNA into 

separate cells. Without any organelles or complex chromosomes to reproduce most prokaryotic cells 

can divide every 24 hours, or even faster with an adequate supply of food.


These commensal organisms survive by breaking down molecules inside the gut and allow 

the organism they are living within the ability to digest a wider variety of foods.

For example, the human gut contains 2-3 pounds of bacteria, which have evolved to help us digest 

complex carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.


Structure Of Prokaryotic Cell

Prokaryotic cells do not have a true nucleus that contains their genetic material as eukaryotic cells do. Prokaryotic cells have a nucleoid region, which is an irregularly-shaped region that contains the cell’s DNA and is not surrounded by a nuclear envelope. Some other parts of prokaryotic cells are similar to those in eukaryotic cells, such as a cell wall surrounding the cell.
Like eukaryotic cells, prokaryotic cells have cytoplasm, a gel-like substance that makes up the “filling” of the cell, and a cytoskeleton that contains components of the cell in place. Both prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells have ribosomes, which are organelles that produce proteins, and vacuoles, small spaces in cells that store nutrients and help to eliminate waste materials.
Some prokaryotic cells have flagella, which are tail-like structures that enable the organism to move around. They may also have pili, small hair-like structures that help bacteria adhere to surfaces and can allow DNA to be transferred between two prokaryotic cells in a process known as conjugation. Another part found in some bacteria is the capsule. The capsule is a sticky layer of carbohydrates that helps the bacterium adhere to surfaces in its surroundings.


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