Unicellular

Unicellular Microorganisms

Compare the similarities and differences of the two types of unicellular microorganisms.

Multiple Choice

What does the prefix uni- mean?

• Many

• One

• Some

Unicellular organisms depend on ONE cell for all its needs.

• Obtain Energy

• Reproduce (Cell Division)

• Ability to Move

• Respond to Their Environment

• Respire (Breathe)

• Eliminate Waste

Multiple Choice

What part of the bacteria cell is used for movement?

• Cell Wall

• Cytoplasm

• Flagellum

Multiple Choice

Through what cell part would a unicellular organism take in oxygen and get rid of waste?

• Vacuole

• Cell Membrane

• Cytoplasm

Two Types of Unicellular Organisms

Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes

Prokaryotes

• Pro (means before) and Kary (means nucleus)

• No Nucleus

• Extremely Small

• Examples include Bacteria and Archaea

Archaea

Bacteria make up most of the prokaryotes. Archaea are typically found in extreme environments such as hot springs or near volcanoes. The difference between bacteria and archaea is their type of cell wall: archaea have a thicker cell wall that is very strong.

Eukaryotes

• Eu (means true) and kary (means nucleus)

• Has a nucleus

• Some have chloroplasts

• 10 to 100 times larger

• Examples: Amoeba. Euglena, Paramecium (Protists)

Multiple Choice

Most unicellular organisms eat other organisms for food. But some can make their own food through photosynthesis. What cell organelle must they have for this process.

• Nucleus

• Mitochondria

• Chloroplasts

Similarities in Cell Parts & Functions

• Cell Membrane

• Cytoplasm

• DNA

• Ribosomes