Microbial Nutrition and Culture Media

This set of flashcards focuses on essential concepts in microbial nutrition and culture media from the lecture notes.

Heterotrophic bacteria

Bacteria that assimilate organic compounds to synthesize new cell materials.

Autotrophic microorganisms

Microorganisms that build their cellular structure from carbon dioxide, using energy from light or inorganic chemicals.

Nitrogen-fixing bacteria

Microorganisms that convert atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into a form usable by plants and other organisms.

Culture Media

A nutrient-rich substance that supports the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

Defined Media

Growth medium containing a precise mixture of pure chemicals designed to support the growth of specific microorganisms.

Enriched Media

A growth medium containing additional nutrients that support the growth of specific microorganisms, particularly fastidious ones.

Phototrophic bacteria

Microorganisms that produce their own food through photosynthesis using light energy.

Chemotrophic bacteria

Microorganisms that obtain energy by converting chemical compounds into other forms.

Peptidoglycan

A rigid layer in bacterial cell walls, primarily responsible for their strength.

Gram-positive bacteria

Bacteria characterized by a thick peptidoglycan layer in their cell wall.

Gram-negative bacteria

Bacteria that have a thinner peptidoglycan layer and an outer membrane, often toxic to animals.

Endotoxin

A toxic component of the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) layer in gram-negative bacteria.

Chemotaxis

The ability of bacteria to move towards or away from chemical stimuli in their environment.

Aerobic bacteria

Bacteria that require oxygen for growth and generate energy through aerobic respiration.

Bioremediation

The use of microorganisms to clean up environmental pollutants.

Decomposition

The process by which bacteria break down organic matter, recycling nutrients and maintaining ecosystem balance.

Selective forces

Factors that influence the morphology of a given species.