Derived from the latin roots “eu” (true) and “karyon” (nucleus), eukaryotic cells are identifiable and distinguishable from their prokaryotic predecessors by the presence of a complex double membrane-bound control center (the nucleus) that isolates the genetic material (DNA) from the surrounding cytoplasm.
Eukaryotic cells also embody many specialized organelles within their phospholipid membrane. Some of these organelles, such as mitochondria and chloroplasts, are believed to have once been independent organisms that were engulfed through endocytosis and eventually encorporated into the genetic makeup of the cell because of their useful metabolic processes. This concept is known as endosymbiotic theory.
Eukaryotic organisms include animals, plants, protista, and fungi, some of which are multicellular and others of which are unicellular. To learn more about eukaryotic plant or animal cells, follow the images bellow.
Plant Cell
Animal Cell
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pic/other sources:
http://microbiology.suite101.com/article.cfm/prokaryotic_and_eukaryotic_cells
http://www.weberweb.net/Cells/jpg/AnimalCellColor.jpg
http://www.rapidonline.com/netalogue/zoomed/Large/52601201.jpg
