Which characteristic is NOT found in prokaryotic cells?

Prokaryotic cells are distinguished by several unique characteristics, and one of the key features that sets them apart from eukaryotic cells is the absence of membrane-bound organelles. This includes structures such as the nucleus, mitochondria, and endoplasmic reticulum, which are all found in eukaryotic cells.

In contrast, prokaryotic cells, which include bacteria and archaea, have their genetic material situated in a nucleoid region rather than a defined nucleus, and they do possess a cell membrane that encloses the cell. They also contain DNA as their genetic material, often organized in a single circular chromosome.

Therefore, the presence of membrane-bound organelles is characteristic of eukaryotic cells, making it the correct choice in this context regarding what is not found in prokaryotic cells.