Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes Overview

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to prokaryotes and eukaryotes based on lecture notes.

Eukaryotes

Organisms with complex cells that have a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Prokaryotes

Simpler organisms without a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles, consisting primarily of bacteria and archaea.

Gram-positive bacteria

Bacteria that have a thick peptidoglycan layer in their cell wall and retain the crystal violet stain used in the Gram staining procedure.

Gram-negative bacteria

Bacteria that have a thin peptidoglycan layer and an outer lipid membrane, which do not retain the crystal violet stain and appear pink when stained.

Capsule

A protective layer made of polysaccharides or proteins surrounding some bacterial cells that aids in adherence and protection.

Fimbriae

Short, hair-like structures that help bacteria adhere to surfaces or other cells.

Plasmids

Small, circular pieces of DNA found in bacteria that can carry additional genes, often exchanged between bacteria.

Mutualism

An ecological interaction where both species benefit from the relationship.

Ecological Interactions

The relationships between living organisms and their environment, which can include symbiosis.

Endospore

A resistant cell produced by some bacteria that can withstand harsh conditions.

Chromosome

A structure composed of DNA that contains the genetic information of an organism.

Taxis

Movement of an organism toward (positive) or away from (negative) a stimulus.

Extremophiles

Organisms that thrive in extreme environments, such as high temperatures or salinity.

Peptidoglycan

A polymer that makes up the cell wall of bacteria, giving them structural support.

Symbiosis

An ecological relationship in which two different species live in close physical proximity.