Introduction to Protists

Protists are classified into the Domain Bacteria.

Protists are a kingdom comprising only eukaryotic organisms that are not animals, plants, or fungi.

All protists are multicellular, forming complex colonies with specialized cells.

Protists move by extending their cytoplasm into extensions called flagella.

Amoebas use pseudopodia, temporary cytoplasmic extensions, for movement and capturing prey.

Binary fission in protists involves the exchange of genetic material between two cells, resulting in increased genetic diversity.

Conjugation in paramecia results in offspring with a combination of genetic material from both parent cells.

Plasmodium, the protist that causes malaria, reproduces only asexually within both mosquito and human hosts.

The life cycle of Plasmodium involves both sexual and asexual reproduction, utilizing both mosquitoes and humans as hosts.

Protists are mainly classified based on their genetic similarities determined through DNA sequencing.

Animal-like protists, also known as protozoa, are autotrophic organisms capable of producing their own food through photosynthesis.

Plant-like protists, known as fungi, are heterotrophic and perform decomposition.

Fungi-like protists are heterotrophic organisms that obtain nutrients by decomposing organic matter.

Protists are exclusively microscopic organisms, invisible to the naked eye.

All protists are harmful and cause diseases in humans and other organisms.

Protists never have chloroplasts.

Slime molds are classified as animal-like protists due to their ability to move and engulf food particles.

Protists do not exhibit sexual reproduction.

Protists are considered a monophyletic group, meaning they all share a single common ancestor.

Protists are important primary producers in aquatic ecosystems, converting sunlight into energy through photosynthesis.