| Structure |
Form |
Function |
Which organisms? |
| Nucleus |
Surrounded by a membrane, contains chromosomes. |
Stores the genome and interprets DNA. |
All eukaryotes: animals, plants, fungi, and protists. |
| Cell membrane |
Double membrane. |
Separates the cell from its environment, regulates the movement of substances into and out of the cell. |
All organisms. |
| Cell wall |
Cellulose (plants), chitin (fungi), murein (bacteria). |
Protects and supports the cell. |
Plants, fungi, many protists, most bacteria and archaea. |
| Mitochondrion. |
Organelle surrounded by two double membranes. |
Cell respiration and energy metabolism. |
All eukaryotes. |
| Chloroplast |
Organelle surrounded by two double membranes, contains photosynthetic membranes. |
Energy production through photosynthesis. |
Algae, plants, some bacteria. |
| Endoplasmic reticulum |
Membraneous pouches and blisters. |
The movement and modification of substances. |
All eukaryotes. |
| Lysosome |
Membraneous blister |
Breaks down unnecessary substances. |
Animals. |
| Vacuole |
Membraneous blister |
Stores fluids, breaks down unnecessary substances. |
Plants, fungi. |
