Chapter 11 [Part 1/3] - Characterizing and Classifying Prokaryotes

Characterizing and Classifying Prokaryotes

Prokaryotes

Single-celled organisms that lack a nucleus, including the domains Archaea and Bacteria.

Binary Fission

The most common method of asexual reproduction in prokaryotes, where a parent cell divides to form two identical daughter cells.

Endospore

A dormant, tough, and non-reproductive structure produced by some bacteria for self-preservation in harsh environments.

Cocci

Spherical-shaped prokaryotic organisms.

Bacilli

Rod-shaped prokaryotic organisms.

Spirilla

Spiral-shaped prokaryotic organisms.

Archaea

One of the two domains of prokaryotes, distinct from bacteria, often characterized by unique biochemistry and genetics.

Methanogens

A group of Archaea that produce methane as a metabolic byproduct in anoxic conditions, typically found in ruminant animals.

Halophiles

Microorganisms that thrive in highly saline environments.

Crenarchaeota

A phylum of Archaea that includes many thermophilic microorganisms.

Euryarchaeota

A phylum of Archaea that includes a variety of organisms, including methanogens.

Morphology

The study of the form and structure of organisms, including shape and arrangement for prokaryotes.

Pathology

The study of diseases caused by microorganisms, including the detrimental effects of prokaryotes.

True Spores

Reproductive structures produced by some bacteria that can develop into vegetative cells when conditions are favorable.

Snapping Division

A reproductive strategy in some prokaryotes where the parent cell's wall forms in the center and then snaps apart.

Palisades

A unique arrangement of rod-shaped bacteria that occurs when cells remain attached after division, often seen in snapping division.

Pleomorphic

Organisms that can have various shapes or forms, particularly due to environmental factors.

Phylogenetic Relationships

The evolutionary connections between species based on genetic information.

Thermophiles

Organisms that thrive at high temperatures, often found in hot springs and hydrothermal vents.

Vibrio

Curved or comma-shaped prokaryotic organisms.

Diplococcus

A pair of cocci that results from binary fission along one plane.

Streptococcus

Chains of cocci resulting from binary fission occurring along one plane.

Tetrads

Groups of four cocci arranged in a square formation.

Sarcina

Cuboidal arrangements of cocci resulting from division across three planes.

Staphylococcus

A cluster of cocci that results from random planes of division.