Prokaryotes

Prokaryotes

Organisms with free-floating DNA in the cytoplasm and no membrane-bound organelles.

coccus

spheres bunched or separated

bacillus

rod

vibrio

bubble

spirillum

sqwiggle

bacterial locomotion

tumble and run, chemical sensors=eyes

Cell membrane

A structure that surrounds the cell, providing protection and regulating what enters and exits.

Cytoplasm

The gel-like substance within the cell where cellular processes occur.

Ribosomes

Organelles responsible for protein synthesis in the cell.

Nucleoid

The region in prokaryotes where the DNA is located, not enclosed by a membrane.

Cytoskeleton

A network of fibers that helps maintain the cell's shape and aids in movement.

Flagella

A whip-like structure that enables locomotion in bacteria, allowing them to move in a tumble and run manner.

Polar flagella

Flagella that are attached at the ends of the bacterial cell.

Peritrichous flagella

Flagella that are dispersed all over the surface of the bacterial cell.

Pilus

A hair-like structure used for the transmission of genetic material, particularly in gram-negative bacteria.

Fimbria

Structures that help bacteria attach to surfaces and participate in mating.

S layer

A protective surface coating made of a single protein linked together, also involved in nutrition.

Glycocalyx (caspule)

A rigid capsule made of polysaccharides that acts as body armor for bacteria.

Cell envelope

The outer boundary of a bacterial cell, consisting of multiple layers.

Outer membrane

The outermost layer of the cell envelope in gram-negative bacteria.

Cell wall

A rigid structure that provides shape and protection to the bacterial cell.

Cytoplasmic membrane

The innermost layer of the cell envelope that regulates the passage of substances.

Gram-negative

Bacteria with a thin cell wall and an outer membrane, often more resistant to antibiotics. lipid-sugar-lipid

Gram-positive

Bacteria with a thicker cell wall and no outer membrane, generally more susceptible to certain antibiotics. sugar-lipid

Endospores

Dormant structures formed by some bacteria that can become active in favorable environments.

Archaea

A group of prokaryotes with unique cell walls, often found in extreme environments (extremophiles).