Microorganisms in the Ecosystem

Flashcards covering key concepts about microorganisms in ecosystems, focusing on their types, roles, and characteristics.

Prokaryotic Microorganism

Unicellular organisms, including Bacteria and Archaea.

Eukaryotic Microorganism

Can be unicellular or multicellular organisms, including Fungi and Protists.

Decomposition

The process of breaking down organic substances, vital for nutrient cycling in ecosystems.

Saprophytic

Describes fungi that absorb organic materials from dead organisms.

Mycorrhiza

Beneficial association between fungi and plant roots that enhances nutrient uptake.

Chitin

A long-chain polymer that forms the cell walls of fungi, also found in the exoskeletons of arthropods.

Chemoheterotrophic

Organisms that obtain energy by ingesting other organisms or organic matter.

Algae

Photosynthetic organisms that can be single-celled or multicellular, and play a significant role in the aquatic food chain.

Plasmids

Small, circular DNA molecules found in bacteria and archaea, separate from chromosomal DNA.

Endocytosis

The process by which cells internalize substances by enclosing them in vesicles formed from the plasma membrane.

Photosynthesis

The process by which some microorganisms, like algae, convert light energy into chemical energy.

Protozoa

Unicellular animal-like organisms, mainly heterotrophic, that play important roles in ecosystems.

Flagellates

A group of protozoa that move by means of flagella.

Ciliates

Protozoa characterized by the presence of cilia, which they use for movement.

Mitochondrion

An organelle that generates ATP through cellular respiration in eukaryotic cells.

Chloroplast

Organelles found in plants and algae, responsible for photosynthesis.

Cilia

Short, hair-like structures that allow movement in some protozoa.

Flagella

Long, whip-like structures that enable movement in certain microorganisms.

Fungal Cell Wall

Made up of chitin and other polysaccharides, providing structure and protection to fungal cells.

Lysosome

Membrane-bound organelles containing hydrolytic enzymes for digestion.

Ectomycorrhiza

Type of mycorrhiza that forms a sheath around root cells.

Endomycorrhiza

Type of mycorrhiza where fungi penetrate root cells, enhancing nutrient exchange.

Trichomes

Hair-like projections found on some algae and plants, aiding in surface area and protection.

Amoeba

A type of protozoa that moves and engulfs food using pseudopodia.