Protists

Mr. Andersen discusses protists, a diverse group of eukaryotic organisms not classified as plants, animals, or fungi. He explains the outdated term 'protists' and their classification challenges. The Tree of Life Project aims to classify all life, including protists, within the domain Eukarya. Protists are likened to a 'biological junk drawer' due to their diversity and unclear evolutionary history. They occupy various ecological niches and exhibit diverse metabolic processes. The video highlights slime molds' unique life cycle and reproduction, and mentions diatoms' role in toothpaste. Understanding protists as eukaryotes distinct from plants, animals, and fungi is emphasized.

What are the two major groups of protists mentioned in the podcast?

What role do diatoms play in everyday products like toothpaste?

What is the main characteristic that defines protists according to the speaker?