Prokaryotes: Bacteria and Archaea

This set of flashcards covers essential vocabulary and concepts regarding prokaryotes, their structure, function, and ecological significance.

Prokaryotes

Microscopic organisms that lack a nucleus and membrane-bounded organelles; include bacteria and archaea.

Binary Fission

A method of asexual reproduction in which a prokaryotic cell divides into two identical daughter cells.

Peptidoglycan

A substance forming the cell walls of many bacteria, consisting of glycan chains cross-linked by peptide bridges.

Gram Staining

A laboratory technique used to classify bacteria into two groups (Gram-positive and Gram-negative) based on their cell wall composition.

Capsule

A polysaccharide or protein layer surrounding the cell wall of some prokaryotes, which aids in attachment and protection.

Endospores

Metabolically inactive structures formed by some prokaryotes that allow them to survive extreme environmental conditions.

Flagella

Long, whip-like structures that enable some prokaryotes to swim and move toward stimuli.

Eukarya

One of the three domains of life; includes all organisms with eukaryotic cells.

Archaea

A domain of prokaryotic organisms that often thrive in extreme environments and have distinct biochemistry and genetics.

Bacteria

A domain of prokaryotic organisms known for their diverse metabolic capabilities and ecological roles.

Phototrophs

Organisms that obtain energy from light.

Chemotrophs

Organisms that obtain energy from chemical compounds.

Autotrophs

Organisms that can produce their own food from inorganic substances.

Heterotrophs

Organisms that obtain organic compounds by consuming other organisms.

Obligate Aerobes

Prokaryotes that require oxygen for aerobic respiration.

Obligate Anaerobes

Prokaryotes that are poisoned by oxygen and rely on fermentation or anaerobic respiration.

Facultative Anaerobes

Prokaryotes that can survive with or without oxygen.

Horizontal Gene Transfer

The movement of genetic material between organisms other than through vertical transmission (parent to offspring).

Transformation

The process by which a prokaryotic cell takes up and incorporates foreign DNA from its environment.

Transduction

The transfer of genetic material between prokaryotic cells via bacteriophages.

Conjugation

A process in which genetic material is transferred from one prokaryotic cell to another through direct contact.

Extreme Halophiles

Archaea that thrive in highly saline environments.

Extreme Thermophiles

Archaea that thrive in very hot environments.

Methanogens

Archaea that produce methane as a byproduct of anaerobic respiration.

Mutagenesis

The process of generating mutations, which can contribute to genetic diversity in prokaryotes.

Symbiosis

An ecological relationship in which two different species live in close physical proximity, often benefiting each other.

Photosynthesis

The process by which certain organisms convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose.

Bioremediation

The use of living organisms, such as prokaryotes, to remove or neutralize contaminants from the environment.

Pathogens

Microorganisms that cause disease in their hosts, often referred to as disease-causing agents.