Introduction to Protists and Their Impact

Flashcards covering the characteristics, ecological significance, reproduction, and human health impacts of protists.

Protists

Eukaryotic organisms that typically live in water and exist in large populations.

Photosynthetic plankton

Protists that perform photosynthesis, serving as primary producers in aquatic food chains.

Primary producers

Organisms that form the base of the food web, essential for energy flow in ecosystems.

Phytophthora infestans

The water mold responsible for the Irish Potato Famine, resulting in mass starvation.

Malaria

A disease caused by the Plasmodium protist, transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes.

Red Tide

A phenomenon caused by dinoflagellate blooms, which can lead to toxic conditions in marine environments.

Endosymbiotic Theory

The hypothesis that eukaryotic cells evolved through engulfing prokaryotic cells, such as cyanobacteria.

Pseudopodia

A form of movement utilized by some protists, where the cell membrane extends and pulls the cell forward.

Cilia

Short, hair-like structures used by protists for coordinated movement and feeding.

Flagella

Long, whip-like structures that propel protists, using the dynein motor protein.

Haploid

A cell or organism with one set of chromosomes (n).

Diploid

A cell or organism with two sets of chromosomes (2n).

Alternation of Generations

A reproductive cycle that includes both diploid sporophyte and haploid gametophyte stages.

Genetic diversity

Variability in genetic composition among individuals, important for adaptation and evolution.