Two Ways Archaea and Bacteria are Similar and Different from Eukarya
Similarities and Differences Between Archaea and Bacteria
- They are both single-celled, microscopic organisms
- They lack a cellular nucleus
- They have a single circular chromosome of DNA
- They can have flagella to assist with movement
However, they have significant differences:- Archaea and bacteria have different cell wall structures
- They have different membrane lipids
- Their metabolism and ecological roles differ
- Archaea and bacteria are classified as prokaryotes
Archaea and bacteria both lack a defined nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, which are characteristic features of eukaryotic cells. They are also classified as prokaryotes, meaning they lack a true nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles found in eukaryotes. Instead, their DNA is located in a region called the nucleoid, which is not enclosed by a membrane. Additionally, prokaryotic cells lack other membrane-bound structures such as mitochondria, chloroplasts, and endoplasmic reticulum found in eukaryotes.