Eukarya

Definition

Eukarya is one of the three domains of life, characterized by cells with a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. Eukaryotic organisms include animals, plants, fungi, and protists.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Eukarya have linear DNA enclosed within a nuclear membrane.
2. Unlike prokaryotes, eukaryotes have complex cellular structures including mitochondria and chloroplasts.
3. Eukaryotic cells can be unicellular or multicellular.
4. The domain Eukarya is divided into four kingdoms: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, and Protista.
5. Eukaryotic cells undergo mitosis for cell division.

Review Questions

Related terms

Prokaryote: Organisms whose cells lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Nucleus:

A membrane-bound organelle found in eukaryotic cells that contains genetic material.

Mitosis:

A process of cell division in eukaryotic cells that results in two genetically identical daughter cells.