Yes, animals have a nucleus.
Why Animals Have a Nucleus
All animals are classified as eukaryotes. Eukaryotic cells are characterized by the presence of a nucleus, a membrane-bound organelle that contains the cell's genetic material (DNA). The reference material clearly states, "All animals have a nucleus in their cells because all animals are eukaryotes. Within a eukaryotic cell, the nucleus is one of the largest organelles."
Key Features of the Nucleus in Animal Cells
- Contains DNA: The nucleus houses the animal's DNA, organized into chromosomes.
- Control Center: It acts as the control center of the cell, regulating gene expression and cellular activities.
- Membrane Bound: The nucleus is enclosed by a double membrane called the nuclear envelope, separating it from the cytoplasm.
Comparison with Prokaryotes
Unlike animal cells (eukaryotic cells), prokaryotic cells (e.g., bacteria and archaea) do not have a nucleus. Their DNA is located in the cytoplasm. This is a fundamental difference between these two major types of cells.
Examples
Here are some examples of animal cells with a nucleus:
- Muscle cells
- Nerve cells
- Skin cells
- Blood cells
