BioMasterAnimal vs plant cell: differences
Two eukaryotic cells that look alike but are not the same. What each one has and the other lacks, in a table, with the mitochondria trap.
Direct answer: The plant cell has a cell wall (cellulose), chloroplasts and a large central vacuole. The animal cell lacks those three, but has centrioles and prominent lysosomes. Both are eukaryotic and share a nucleus, membrane and mitochondria.
Comparison table
| Structure | Animal cell | Plant cell |
|---|---|---|
| Cell wall | No | Yes (cellulose) |
| Chloroplasts | No | Yes |
| Vacuole | Small or absent | One large central |
| Centrioles | Yes | Usually no |
| Shape | Variable, rounded | Fixed, rectangular |
| Mitochondria | Yes | Yes |
Exam trap: the plant cell also has mitochondria — not only chloroplasts. The plant does photosynthesis (chloroplast) AND cellular respiration (mitochondrion). Confusing this is a classic mistake.
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Study Biology free on BioMasterFrequently asked questions
What does the plant cell have that the animal cell lacks?
A cell wall, chloroplasts and a large central vacuole.
Does the plant cell have mitochondria?
Yes. It has both chloroplasts and mitochondria.
Are both eukaryotic?
Yes, both have a defined nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.