Protists

Protists are eukaryotic organisms that have a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. They typically live in or near water and can be unicellular or multicellular.

The protist kingdom includes organisms that are not classified as plants, animals or fungi. Protists are difficult to categorize because there is a wide variation of characteristics among species.

Protists are often grouped according to whether they are animal-like, plant-like or fungus-like.

Animal-like protists are known as protozoa. They are single-celled organisms that move to find food. Amoeba and paramecium are classified as protozoa.

Plant-like protists, called algae, contain chloroplasts and make their own food by the process of photosynthesis. They are primarily found in fresh water. Examples include volvox, euglena and spirogyra.

Fungus-like protists are heterotrophs that feed on decomposing matter. They reproduce using spores. Water molds, downy mildew and slime molds are fungus-like protists.