Name ______

It’s So Simple: Kingdom Monera (Bacteria)

Scientists put all living things into five kingdoms: Monera, Protista, Fungi, Plantae, and Animalia. (We’ll look at Monera, Protista, and Fungi). Let’s look at Monerans.

Cell Structure

Monerancells to not have a nucleus (brain). They are called prokaryotes, which means “before a nucleus.” They also don’t have any organelles (“little organs”) to help with life processes. They do have cell membranes and some of the also have cell walls. Some kinds of Monerans have chlorophyll, as well (this makes them producers).

Number of Cells

Monerans are the simplest kinds of organisms. They have only one cell (single-celled organism).

Kinds of Movement

Some kinds of Monerans are able to move on their own. They use simple structures that look like whips. These are called flagella. Others cannot move.

Nutrition

Some Monerans are producers. Others are consumers.

Is it Moneran or Not?

Any organism that has these specific characteristics is a Moneran. If it doesn’t have these characteristics, it’s not a Moneran.

1. I have recently found a new organism. I need to classify it. I think it should be classified as a Moneran. Look at the following characteristics and see if you agree with me. (Circle your answer).

a. My new organisms are very tiny. When I see it in the microscope, I notice it is only one cell.

Could this be a Moneran? YesNo

b. When I look closely inside the cell, I notice there is no nucleus. I don’t notice any organelles inside the cell.

Could this be a Moneran? YesNo

c. This cell does not seem to be able to move. I do not notice any structures on or in the cell that would help it move.

Could this be a Moneran? YesNo

d. This cell has a cell wall and chlorophyll. It is able to use the Sun’s energy to make its own food. It does not have any cell structures that would allow it to use other organisms for food.

Could this be a Moneran? YesNo

Is this organism a Moneran? Yes No

Key

1. I have recently found a new organism. I need to classify it. I think it should be classified as a Moneran. Look at the following characteristics and see if you agree with me. (Circle your answer).

a. My new organisms are very tiny. When I see it in the microscope, I notice it is only one cell.

Could this be a Moneran? YesNo

b. When I look closely inside the cell, I notice there is no nucleus. I don’t notice any organelles inside the cell.

Could this be a Moneran? YesNo

c. This cell does not seem to be able to move. I do not notice any structures on or in the cell that would help it move.

Could this be a Moneran? YesNo

d. This cell has a cell wall and chlorophyll. It is able to use the Sun’s energy to make its own food. It does not have any cell structures that would allow it to use other organisms for food.

Could this be a Moneran? YesNo

Is this organism a Moneran? YesNo