Protists are unicellular organisms with a nucleus, classified into three main categories: animal-like, plant-like, and fungus-like protists. Animal-like protists include various groups such as sarcodines and ciliates, which can move and capture food, while plant-like protists, like algae, are autotrophs that produce oxygen via photosynthesis. Fungus-like protists, including molds, reproduce with spores and play roles in ecosystems, including some that can cause plant diseases.