Microorganisms in the Ecosystem

A set of flashcards covering key concepts about microorganisms, fungi, protozoa, algae, eukaryotic cell structure, and cellular functions.

What are the two main types of prokaryotic microorganisms?

Bacteria and Archaea.

What roles do microorganisms play in the ecosystem?

Decomposition, nutrient cycling, soil aggregation, beneficial for plant growth, and disease causation.

What is the primary function of fungi in the ecosystem?

Fungi are decomposers that recycle organic materials.

What structure makes up fungi?

Fungi are made up of hyphae, collectively called mycelium.

What do fungal cell walls contain?

Chitin.

What is the relationship between mycorrhizal fungi and plants?

Mycorrhizal fungi form symbiotic relationships with plants, aiding in nutrient uptake.

What defines protozoa?

Protozoa are unicellular animal-like microorganisms that mostly ingest other organisms for nutrition.

How do algae obtain energy?

Algae are aerobic, photosynthetic microorganisms that use sunlight for energy.

What is the significance of ribosomes in eukaryotic cells?

Ribosomes are the site of protein synthesis in eukaryotic cells.

What are the two types of endocytosis?

Phagocytosis (for large particles) and pinocytosis (for small amounts of liquid).

What is the main function of the Golgi apparatus?

The Golgi apparatus modifies, packages, and secretes materials.

What distinguishes eukaryotic cells from prokaryotic cells?

Eukaryotic cells have a true membrane-bound nucleus and are more complex.

What is the structure and function of chloroplasts?

Chloroplasts are pigment-containing organelles involved in photosynthesis.

What are the characteristics of cilia and flagella?

Cilia are short, hair-like structures for movement, while flagella are longer and propel cells in a whip-like motion.

What is the main component of the bacterial cell wall?

Peptidoglycan.

What type of ribosomes are found in eukaryotic cells?

Eukaryotic ribosomes are 80S in size with 60S and 40S subunits.

What roles do lysosomes have in eukaryotic cells?

Lysosomes contain enzymes for digestion and are involved in the detoxification of harmful substances.

How do fungi reproduce?

Fungi can reproduce both asexually and sexually.

What is unique about mitochondria in terms of function?

Mitochondria are the site of ATP generation through oxidative phosphorylation.

What is the structure of the endoplasmic reticulum?

The endoplasmic reticulum is an irregular network of membranous tubules and cisternae.