No, prokaryotes do not have cilia.
Cilia vs. Prokaryotes
The presence or absence of cilia is a fundamental difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. The reference clearly states that cilia are not present in prokaryotes and are predominantly found in eukaryotes.
| Feature | Prokaryotes | Eukaryotes |
|---|---|---|
| Cilia | Absent | Predominantly Present |
| Cell Type | Bacteria, Archaea | Animals, Plants, Fungi, Protists |
What Prokaryotes Do Have
Instead of cilia, some prokaryotes may possess structures like flagella for motility. Flagella in prokaryotes are structurally different from eukaryotic cilia. Here's a comparison:
- Prokaryotic Flagella: Simpler in structure, composed of flagellin. They rotate like a propeller.
- Eukaryotic Cilia: More complex, composed of microtubules arranged in a 9+2 array. They beat in a coordinated manner.
Summary
The absence of cilia is a defining characteristic of prokaryotic cells. Cilia are a hallmark of eukaryotic cells, serving various functions, including movement and sensory perception.
