No, prokaryotes do not have mitochondria.
Prokaryotic vs. Eukaryotic Cells
The presence or absence of mitochondria is a key distinction between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
- Prokaryotes: These are simple cells that lack a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. Bacteria and Archaea are prokaryotes.
- Eukaryotes: These are more complex cells with a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles, including mitochondria. Examples include animal, plant, fungal, and protist cells.
Absence of Mitochondria in Prokaryotes
Mitochondria are organelles responsible for cellular respiration, the process of generating energy (ATP) for the cell. Prokaryotes carry out cellular respiration in the cytoplasm and on the cell membrane.
Key Differences Summarized
| Feature | Prokaryotes | Eukaryotes |
|---|---|---|
| Nucleus | Absent | Present |
| Mitochondria | Absent | Present |
| Other Organelles | Absent | Present (e.g., Golgi apparatus, ER) |
| Size | Smaller (0.1-5 μm) | Larger (10-100 μm) |
| Examples | Bacteria, Archaea | Animals, Plants, Fungi, Protists |
As the reference states, prokaryotes lack mitochondria, as well as other membrane-bound structures like the nucleus and Golgi apparatus. These features are exclusive to eukaryotic cells.
