Biological Classification: Mycoplasma and Kingdom Protista

Vocabulary flashcards covering the characteristics of Mycoplasma, the general features of Kingdom Protista, and the specific biology of Chrysophytes and diatoms.

Mycoplasma

Organisms that completely lack a cell wall, represent the smallest living cells known, and are capable of surviving without oxygen.

Kingdom Protista

A taxonomic kingdom that includes all single-celled eukaryotes, which are primarily aquatic and possess a well-defined nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Chrysophytes

A group within Kingdom Protista that includes diatoms and golden algae (desmids), found in both fresh water and marine environments.

Plankton

Microscopic organisms that float passively in water currents.

Diatoms

Photosynthetic organisms characterized by cell walls consisting of two thin overlapping shells embedded with silica, making them indestructible.

Diatomaceous earth

The accumulation of silica-rich cell wall deposits from diatoms over billions of years, utilized for polishing and the filtration of oils and syrups.

Desmids

A term another name for golden algae, which belong to the group Chrysophytes.

Chief producers

The role diatoms play in the oceans as the primary source of organic production.