Prokaryotes- topic 10

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms related to prokaryotes and their characteristics.

Prokaryote

Microscopic organisms that lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Peptidoglycan

A structural polymer found in bacterial cell walls consisting of modified sugars linked by polypeptides.

Capsule

A sticky layer of polysaccharides or proteins surrounding the cell wall of many prokaryotes, aiding in surface adhesion and protection.

Endospore

A metabolically inactive structure formed by some prokaryotes that can survive extreme conditions.

Binary fission

A form of asexual reproduction in prokaryotes where a single cell divides into two identical cells.

Horizontal gene transfer (HGT)

The movement of genetic material between prokaryotic cells through mechanisms other than parent-to-offspring inheritance.

Transformation

The uptake and integration of foreign DNA by a prokaryotic cell from its environment.

Transduction

The transfer of DNA from one prokaryote to another via bacteriophages.

Conjugation

The direct transfer of DNA between prokaryotic cells through a pilus.

Chemoautotroph

Prokaryotes that obtain energy from chemical reactions and use inorganic molecules as carbon sources.

Phototroph

Organisms that obtain energy from light.

Obligate anaerobes

Prokaryotes that are inhibited by oxygen and rely on anaerobic methods for energy.

Mutations

Changes in the DNA sequence that can lead to genetic variation in prokaryotes.

Motility

The ability of prokaryotes to move actively, often using flagella.

Symbiosis

A close, long-term ecological relationship between two species where at least one benefits.

Pathogen

A disease-causing agent, often a type of prokaryote.

Extremophiles

Organisms, often prokaryotes, that thrive in extreme environmental conditions.

Rhizobium

A genus of bacteria that form symbiotic relationships with legumes, fixing nitrogen in exchange for carbohydrates.

Gram-positive bacteria

Bacteria with a thick peptidoglycan layer in their cell wall that can retain crystal violet dye during Gram staining.

Gram-negative bacteria

Bacteria with a thinner peptidoglycan layer and an outer membrane that may contain lipopolysaccharides.

Cyanobacteria

Photosynthetic prokaryotes that produce oxygen and contribute to the nitrogen cycle.

Chlamydias

Obligate intracellular parasites that live only within animal cells and lack peptidoglycan in their cell walls.