Applied Microbiology Lecture 3 - Microbial Growth and Metabolism

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on key concepts from the Applied Microbiology Lecture 3 focusing on microbial growth and metabolism.

Binary Fission

The primary method of bacterial reproduction where a single cell divides into two identical daughter cells.

Optimum Temperature

The temperature at which most rapid growth of a microorganism occurs.

Metabolism

The sum of all chemical reactions occurring in a cell, including catabolic and anabolic pathways.

Biofilm

A structured microbial community attached to a surface, enclosed in a self-produced matrix.

Quorum Sensing

A density-dependent signaling process used by microorganisms in communities to coordinate changes in gene expression.

Peptidoglycan

A polymer consisting of sugars and amino acids that forms a protective layer in bacterial cell walls.

Halophiles

Microorganisms that grow best in high salt concentrations.

Generation Time

The time required for a population to double in size during microbial growth.

Extracellular Polymeric Substance (EPS)

A self-produced matrix composed of polysaccharides, proteins, and DNA that encases biofilms.

Viable But Non-Culturable (VBNC)

A state in which cells are alive but not actively dividing and can remain dormant until conditions improve.

Facultative Anaerobes

Microorganisms that can grow with or without oxygen but prefer to use oxygen when available.

Aerobic Respiration

A metabolic process that requires oxygen to generate energy, using it as the terminal electron acceptor.

Spore Formation

A reproductive method employed by some bacteria, involving the development of spores for dispersal.

Temperature Groups of Microorganisms

Classifications based on optimal growth temperatures, including psychrophiles, mesophiles, thermophiles, and hyperthermophiles.

Enriched Media

Culture media that are supplemented with additional nutrients to support the growth of fastidious microorganisms.

Selective Media

Culture media designed to inhibit the growth of some microbes while allowing others to grow.

Culture Media

Artificial environments used to grow, transport, and store microorganisms in the laboratory.

Chemotrophs

Microorganisms that obtain energy from the oxidation of chemical compounds.

Photosynthetic Bacteria

Microorganisms that obtain energy from light through photosynthesis.

Microbial Growth Curve

A graphical representation of population size changes over time with distinct phases such as lag, exponential, stationary, and death phase.