Microbial Ecology and Biogeochemical Cycles

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts discussed in the lecture about microbial ecology, the challenges of culturing bacteria, and the importance of biogeochemical cycles.

Great Plate Count Anomaly

The phenomenon where less than 1% of all bacterial cells observed under a microscope can be cultured in a laboratory.

Proteobacteria

The largest and most metabolically diverse phylum of bacteria, often highlighted for its relevance to human health.

Nutrient Cycles

The pathways through which essential elements move through the biological and physical environment, including carbon and nitrogen cycles.

Carbon Fixation

The process of converting carbon dioxide into organic compounds, primarily glucose, through processes like photosynthesis.

Nitrogen Fixation

The conversion of nitrogen gas from the atmosphere into ammonia or related compounds that plants can use.

Metagenomics

The study of genetic material recovered directly from environmental samples, allowing for insights into microbial diversity.

Bioinformatics

The use of software and computational tools to manage and analyze biological data, especially in genomics.

SSU Ribosomal RNA

A component of the ribosome used in genetic analysis to identify and classify prokaryotes.

Anaerobes

Microorganisms that do not require oxygen for growth; many are found in environments like deep soils or the guts of organisms.

Ecosystem Services

The benefits provided by ecosystems, including nutrient cycling and supporting biodiversity, essential for human life.