What happens to mRNA molecules in prokaryotes after transcription?

In prokaryotes, once transcription is completed, mRNA molecules are ready for translation almost immediately without undergoing any extensive processing. This is because prokaryotic cells lack a defined nucleus and other organelles that are found in eukaryotic cells, where mRNA typically undergoes modifications such as the addition of a 5' cap and poly-A tail, as well as splicing. In prokaryotes, mRNAs are directly translated by ribosomes in the cytoplasm while they are still being synthesized by RNA polymerase. This allows for a very efficient coupling of transcription and translation, which is a characteristic adaptation of prokaryotic cells, enabling them to respond quickly to environmental changes.