Microorganisms and Bacteria Overview

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms related to microorganisms, their classifications, growth, and treatment.

Microorganisms

Organisms too small to be seen without a microscope, also called microbes, germs, or bugs.

Protozoa

Unicellular organisms that move by flagella or amoeboid motion, often living in water and soil.

Fungi

Non-photosynthetic organisms similar to plants, with cells enclosed by a rigid cell wall; includes yeasts and molds.

Bacteria

Tiny unicellular organisms with a rigid cell wall; do not have an organized nucleus and are ubiquitous.

Viruses

Even smaller than bacteria, unable to grow and reproduce independently, requiring a host cell.

Generation Time

The time it takes for a bacterial population to double, varies among species and conditions.

Lag Phase

The initial phase in a new environment where bacterial growth is slow as they adapt.

Log Phase

The period of exponential growth where bacterial cells divide at a constant rate.

Stationary Phase

Phase where growth rate decreases as nutrients are exhausted and waste products accumulate.

Death Phase

Phase where the number of live bacterial cells declines due to unfavorable conditions.

Cocci

Spherical or round shaped bacteria.

Bacilli

Rectangular shaped bacteria.

Spirilla

Curved or spiral shaped rods of bacteria.

Gram Positive Bacteria

Bacteria that appear dark bluish-black after a Gram stain.

Gram Negative Bacteria

Bacteria that stain pink to red in color after Gram staining.

Endospores

Special resistant structures formed by some bacteria to survive harsh conditions.

Antibiotics

Drugs used to treat bacterial infections, ineffective against viral infections.

Antifungal Drugs

Medications used to treat infections caused by fungi.

Antiviral Drugs

Medications that inhibit the replication of viruses.

Oncogenic Viruses

Viruses that can cause cancer by altering the host cell's nucleic acid.

Immunization

A method to protect against viral diseases by introducing a vaccine.