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Do Prokaryotes Have Nuclei?

Answer – No, prokaryotes do not have nuclei.

Explanation:

Prokaryotes are single-celled organisms. They are an ancient type of microorganism that continues to exist till today. 

Given their primitive state, prokaryotic cells differ from the modern, evolved eukaryotic cells. One of the key differences is the absence of membrane-bound organelles in the former. They might have regions where mechanisms are concentrated, that in the eukaryotes are surrounded by membranes to form a distinct entity called an organelle. However, their cytoplasm is more homogenous than that of eukaryotes.

Similarly, the genetic material in prokaryotes may be concentrated in a particular area of the cell which is called a nucleoid. However, the lack of a membrane surrounding it and marking it as distinct from the rest of the cell’s cytoplasm prevents it from being a true nucleus. 

Thus, even though prokaryotes may have nucleus-like regions, they cannot be said to have nuclei.


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