The primary difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic flagella lies in their structure, organization, and mechanism of movement.
Here's a detailed comparison:
Structural and Functional Differences Between Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Flagella
| Feature | Prokaryotic Flagella | Eukaryotic Flagella |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Simple; composed of flagellin protein. | Complex; composed of microtubules and other proteins. |
| Microtubule Arrangement | (9+0) | (9+2) |
| Movement | Rotatory (like a propeller). | Wavelike bending. |
| Energy Source | Proton motive force (H+ gradient). | ATP hydrolysis. |
| Location | Extends from the cell membrane. | Enclosed within the cell membrane. |
| Growth | Grows from the tip. | Grows from the base. |
Key Differences Explained
- Microtubule Arrangement: As stated in the reference, eukaryotic flagella have a (9+2) arrangement of microtubules, which means nine pairs of microtubules surround a central pair. Prokaryotic flagella have a simpler (9+0) arrangement (although the reference is slightly misleading, prokaryotic flagella do not contain microtubules at all).
- Type of Movement: Prokaryotic flagella rotate, propelling the cell in a screw-like motion. Eukaryotic flagella move in a whip-like, bending motion.
- Composition: Prokaryotic flagella are made up of flagellin proteins, while eukaryotic flagella are composed of microtubules arranged in a specific pattern, along with other proteins.
