Living BeingsCompare species
Prochlorococcus marinus
Prochlorococcus marinus
African Baobab
Adansonia digitata
Evidence from the profiles
Compare their characteristics
| Trait | Prochlorococcus marinus | African Baobab |
|---|---|---|
| Physical traits | Individual cells are tiny and require microscopy or other analytical methods for study. Pigments and genetic markers assist identification. | Thick, fibrous bark surrounds a broad trunk. Each compound leaf has several leaflets radiating from a central point. |
| Habitat and range | Illuminated marine waters support these phototrophs. Different ecotypes occupy contrasting light and nutrient conditions. | A terrestrial tree of tropical Africa, it is adapted to seasonally dry conditions and is also planted in gardens and settlements. |
| Diet and nutrition | Photosynthesis supplies energy and fixes inorganic carbon. Dissolved nutrients remain necessary for growth. | Leaves produce sugars through photosynthesis. Water and mineral nutrients are taken up through the roots. |
| Behavior and activity | Physiological performance depends on environmental light and resource availability; ecotypes have distinct genome and protein signatures. | Data unavailable |
| Reproduction and life cycle | Growth increases cell number through division. Ecotypes describe biological variation, not separate life stages of one cell. | Large, hanging white flowers develop into capsules containing seeds embedded in pale, powdery pulp. New trees can be grown from seed. |
| Geographic distribution | The group is important in warm oceanic waters. Ecotype-specific records are more informative than a uniform global range. | Native to Africa and cultivated elsewhere. The accompanying photograph shows a planted specimen in Madagascar; that location should not be confused with the native range of every baobab species. |
| Ecological role | These cells contribute primary production to marine microbial food webs and biogeochemical cycling. | Its flowers, fruit and extensive woody structure provide biological resources. The familiar name baobab also applies to other species, which should not be confused with this one. |
| Distinctive adaptations | Small cells and differentiated light responses help explain ecological success in dilute ocean environments. | A substantial trunk and drought-resistant growth form help distinguish this tree from many humid-forest trees. |
Classification
Shared ancestry
Closest shared taxon: cellular organisms.