Question

Explain the characteristics of the Protista kingdom.

Answer 1

The primary feature of all protists is that they are eukaryotic organisms. This means that they have a membrane-enclosed nucleus. (1 mark)
Other characteristic features of Kingdom Protista are as follows:

1. These are usually aquatic, present in the soil or in areas with moisture. (1 mark)
2. Most protist species are unicellular organisms, however, there are a few multicellular protists such as kelp. Some species of kelp grow so large that they exceed over 100 feet in height. (Giant Kelp). (1 mark)
3. Just like any other eukaryotes, the cells of these species have a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. (1 mark)
4. They may be autotrophic or heterotrophic in nature. An autotrophic organism can create their own food and survive. A heterotrophic organism, on the other hand, has to derive nutrition from other organisms such as plants or animals to survive. (1 mark)