It's tricky to say that prokaryotes are "more successful" than humans in a simple, definitive way. "Success" is a subjective term, and depends on what criteria we use to measure it.

Here's a breakdown of why prokaryotes are incredibly successful, even if they don't fit our human-centric idea of success:

Prokaryotic Advantages:

* Abundance and Biomass: Prokaryotes vastly outnumber humans, and their total biomass is significantly greater. They are found in practically every environment on Earth, including extreme conditions that would be lethal to humans.

* Adaptability and Evolution: Prokaryotes reproduce rapidly and have a high mutation rate, allowing them to adapt to changing environments incredibly quickly. They have existed for billions of years, evolving and diversifying into a huge array of species.

* Metabolic Diversity: Prokaryotes exhibit a wide range of metabolisms, enabling them to thrive in diverse environments and utilize a vast array of resources. This includes unique abilities like nitrogen fixation and photosynthesis.

* Resilience: Many prokaryotes are highly resistant to environmental stressors like heat, radiation, and antibiotics. They can form resistant spores that can survive for extended periods in harsh conditions.

However, it's important to consider these points:

* Different Timescales: Prokaryotic success is measured over geological timescales, while human success is viewed in much shorter, historical terms.

* Ecological Roles: Prokaryotes are essential for life on Earth, playing critical roles in nutrient cycling, decomposition, and symbiosis. Humans are dependent on these processes.

* Cultural and Technological Advancements: Humans have developed complex societies, culture, technology, and intellectual pursuits that prokaryotes lack. These are often seen as markers of success, even if they don't contribute to biological survival.

Conclusion:

Prokaryotes are undeniably successful in terms of sheer abundance, adaptability, and ecological impact. They are a vital part of life on Earth. However, humans are a complex species with unique capabilities and achievements. Ultimately, it's up to each individual to decide how they define "success" and what measures they consider important.