the “dumping ground” kingdom

Characteristics Eukaryotes that are NOT plants, animals,

or fungus but are closely related to plants, animals, or fungi.

Microscopic organisms found in oceans, lakes, wetlands, rivers and moist places.

Divide by mitosis, meiosis, or both

1. Plant-like protists2. Animal-like protists3. Fungus-like protists

Have members that resemble fungi Unicellular heterotrophs that are

decomposers or parasites

Examples: Chytrids, mildew, water molds, and slime molds (predators)

Known as protozoans (“first animals”) Resemble single-celled, heterotrophic protist that gave

rise to animals◦ predators, parasites, and grazers

Reproduce either asexually or sexually

Examples: amoeboid protozoans, ciliated protozoans, animal-like flagellates

Known as algae Unicellular and multicellular

photosynthetic autotrophs that start nearly all aquatic food webs

Examples: euglenoids, dinoflagellates, diatoms, and algae (red, brown, green)

KINGDOM FUNGI

CHARACTERISTICS Unicellular and Multicellular

eukaryotes that generally do not move Have cell walls made of chitin. Heterotrophs

(Decomposers/Parasites)that secrete enzymes to digest food outside their bodies

Reproduce asexually but can also reproduce sexually.

ECOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE

release carbon dioxide to the atmosphere

return many nutrients to the soil

Form symbiotic relationships with other organisms.

Used to make medicines (penicillin)

EXAMPLESMushrooms, toadstools, rusts, molds, yeasts