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| Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells |
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| There are two basic types of cells found in living organisms - the prokaryotic cells and the eukaryotic cells. This classification is based on three main features, namely; |
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 Organisation of biomembranes |
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 Nature of cytoplasmic organelles and |
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 Arrangement of the nuclear material |
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| The prokaryotic cells do not have an organised nucleus. The genetic material (DNA) is found in a diffused state in the cytoplasm. It does not form a chromatin and it is not bound by a nuclear membrane. Membrane bound cell organelles are absent and the cell is bound by a single or unit membrane. |
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| The prokaryotic types of cells are found only in primitive forms of life such as Cyanobacteria (or bluegreen algae) and bacteria. |
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| fig. 12.10 - Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells |
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| The eukaryotic cells have an organised nucleus. The genetic material is found forming a distinct thread like chromatin. It is bound by a distinct nuclear membrane that separates it from the surrounding cytoplasm. Membrane bound cell-organelles are present. The cell is bound by a double membrane. |
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| The eukaryotic type of cells are found in all other forms of life - algae, fungi, protozoan, higher plants and higher animals. |
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