Prokaryotes: Traits, Reproduction, and Diversity

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to prokaryotes, including their traits, reproduction methods, diversity, and ecological roles. They are designed to help students understand the fundamental concepts necessary for their exam preparation.

Prokaryotes

Organisms with prokaryotic cells, including bacteria and archaea.

Binary fission

Asexual reproduction in prokaryotes where a cell splits into two daughter cells.

Metabolic diversity

The variety of metabolic processes in prokaryotes, including different types of respiration and carbon sources.

Obligate aerobes

Prokaryotes that require oxygen for respiration.

Facultative anaerobes

Prokaryotes that can switch between aerobic and anaerobic respiration.

Obligate anaerobes

Prokaryotes that are killed by oxygen and live in anaerobic environments.

Capsule

A protective layer outside the cell wall that helps bacteria adhere to surfaces and prevents dehydration.

Plasmids

Small, circular DNA molecules in prokaryotes that carry genes for traits such as antibiotic resistance.

Horizontal gene transfer

The transfer of genetic material between organisms of the same or different species, independent of reproduction.

Endospore

A dormant and resistant form of a bacterium that can survive extreme conditions.

Chemotaxis

Movement of prokaryotes toward or away from a chemical stimulus.

Nitrogen fixation

The process of converting atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into a usable form for plants, carried out by certain bacteria.

Biofilm

A complex aggregation of microorganisms growing on a surface, often including bacteria.

Gram-positive bacteria

Bacteria with a thick peptidoglycan layer in their cell wall that retains the crystal violet stain.

Gram-negative bacteria

Bacteria with a thin peptidoglycan layer and an outer lipid membrane, do not retain the crystal violet stain.