Prokaryota - GCSE Biology Definition

Reviewed by: Lára Marie McIvor

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Prokaryota (also called prokaryotes) is a group of microscopic, single-celled organisms. They do not have a nucleus or other membrane-bound organelles, so their DNA floats freely in the cytoplasm. Prokaryotes include bacteria and archaea and are among the oldest and simplest forms of life on Earth. They can live in a wide range of environments, from the human gut to extreme conditions such as hot springs and salty lakes. Prokaryotes are important in processes like nitrogen fixation and decomposition, playing key roles in ecosystems and human health.

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Lára Marie McIvor

Reviewer: Lára Marie McIvor

Expertise: Biology, Psychology & Sociology Subject Lead

Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.

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