No, not all prokaryotic cells have a cell wall. While most prokaryotes do possess a cell wall, some exceptions exist. The cell wall's primary function is to provide structural support and protection.
Understanding Prokaryotic Cell Walls
- Most prokaryotes have cell walls: The provided text repeatedly states that most prokaryotic cells are encased by a cell wall. This structure is crucial for maintaining cell shape and protecting the cell from environmental changes (Khan Academy, Biology LibreTexts, Biology LibreTexts).
- Exceptions exist: The phrasing "most prokaryotes" indicates that not all members of this domain have a cell wall. The exact percentage of prokaryotes lacking a cell wall isn't readily available in the provided references. Further research would be needed to quantify this.
- Composition varies: Prokaryotic cell walls vary in their composition, with the most common being peptidoglycan in bacteria. Archaea possess different cell wall materials.
Key Differences: Prokaryotes vs. Eukaryotes
It's important to note that while most prokaryotes have cell walls, eukaryotic cells display greater diversity in this regard. Plant cells and some other eukaryotes have cell walls, while animal cells do not (Lumen Learning, Osmosis). Therefore, the presence or absence of a cell wall is not a defining characteristic differentiating prokaryotes from eukaryotes, only a common feature in most prokaryotes.
