Overview of Prokaryotic Life

This set of flashcards contains key vocabulary and concepts related to prokaryotic life, their adaptations, reproduction, metabolism, and ecological roles.

Prokaryotes

Single-celled organisms in the domains Bacteria and Archaea, the most abundant organisms on Earth.

Abiotic synthesis

The process by which simple organic molecules can form without the influence of living organisms.

Protocells

Membrane-bound droplets that may have been the precursors to the first cells, capable of maintaining a consistent internal chemistry.

Stromatolites

Layered sedimentary formations created by the activities of prokaryotes, especially cyanobacteria, dating back to 3.5 billion years ago.

Gram-positive bacteria

Bacteria that have simpler cell walls with a large amount of peptidoglycan.

Gram-negative bacteria

Bacteria with a thinner peptidoglycan layer and an outer membrane that can be toxic.

Binary fission

A method of asexual reproduction in prokaryotes where a cell divides into two identical cells.

Nitrogen fixation

The process by which some prokaryotes convert atmospheric nitrogen (N2) to ammonia (NH3), essential for producing amino acids and nucleic acids.

Endospores

Resistant cells developed by some bacteria when lacking essential nutrients, allowing them to survive extreme conditions.

Horizontal gene transfer

The transfer of genetic material between organisms in a manner other than traditional reproduction, contributing to genetic diversity.