Bacteria Lecture Notes

Flashcards covering key concepts related to bacteria, their characteristics, and their impact on Earth.

Domain Archaea

A domain of prokaryotic organisms distinct from Domain Bacteria, often found in extreme environments.

Domain Bacteria

A domain containing a diverse range of prokaryotic microorganisms, characterized by their lack of a nucleus.

Symbiotic relationships

Interactions between two different organisms living in close physical proximity, which can benefit one or both parties, e.g., Archae~ bacteria and cows.

Halophiles

Microorganisms that thrive in high-salt environments.

Thermophiles

Microorganisms that thrive at relatively high temperatures.

Gram-positive bacteria

Bacteria that retain the crystal violet stain used in the Gram staining protocol, appearing purple under a microscope.

Gram-negative bacteria

Bacteria that do not retain the crystal violet stain and appear red or pink after Gram staining.

Shapes of bacteria

Bacteria can have three main shapes: cocci (spherical), bacilli (rod-shaped), and spirilla (spiral-shaped).

Heterotrophic bacteria

Bacteria that obtain their energy by consuming organic compounds.

Autotrophic bacteria

Bacteria that produce their own food from inorganic substances, e.g., through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis.

Aerobic bacteria

Bacteria that require oxygen for their survival and growth.

Anaerobic bacteria

Bacteria that do not require oxygen and may even be harmed by it.

Bacterial reproduction methods

Bacteria can reproduce through binary fission, budding, and fragmentation.

Methods to eliminate bacteria

Bacteria can be killed by antibiotics, heat, disinfectants, and radiation.

Impact of bacteria on Earth

Bacteria play crucial roles in nutrient cycling, decomposition, and the functioning of ecosystems.