Protista

Protista is a taxonomic group of eukaryotic organisms, which are not classified as a plant, animal, or fungus. Protists are a diverse group of organisms, comprising those eukaryotes that cannot be classified in any of the other kingdoms. They are usually single-celled and microscopic.

Characteristics

Protists are a diverse group of organisms. While they share certain characteristics, such as being eukaryotic and mostly unicellular, they can vary greatly in other aspects. Some protists, like algae, are photosynthetic, while others, like protozoa, are heterotrophic. Some protists are motile, with means of movement such as cilia, flagella, or pseudopodia, while others are non-motile.

Classification

The classification of protists has been a subject of debate. Traditionally, protists were divided into several groups based on similarities to the "higher" kingdoms: the plant-like algae, the animal-like protozoa, and the fungus-like slime molds and water molds. However, modern classifications attempt to group protists based on evolutionary relationships.

Ecology

Protists play key roles in many ecosystems. They are an important source of nutrition for many other organisms. Some protists, like algae, produce oxygen through photosynthesis. Others, like protozoa, help to decompose organic material.

Human health

Some protists are harmful to human health. For example, certain species of protozoa can cause diseases such as malaria and sleeping sickness.

See also

• Eukaryote
• Algae
• Protozoa
• Slime mold
• Water mold

Protista Resources
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