The Prokaryotes: Domains Bacteria and Archaea

These flashcards cover the key concepts and facts related to prokaryotes, specifically focusing on the domains Bacteria and Archaea, as highlighted in the lecture notes.

What does Bergey's Manual list about prokaryotes?

It lists over 3000 species of prokaryotes.

What is the significance of peptidoglycan in prokaryotes?

It is a key structural component of the bacterial cell wall.

How are prokaryotes classified in Bergey's Manual?

They are classified based on characteristics such as morphology, biochemical tests, and genetic information.

What type of bacteria are classified under Proteobacteria?

Proteobacteria are Gram-negative, chemoheterotrophic bacteria classified into five groups: alpha, beta, gamma, delta, and epsilon.

Which bacteria are known as the Alphaproteobacteria?

Alphaproteobacteria include plant pathogens like Agrobacterium and nitrogen-fixing bacteria like Rhizobium.

What are the characteristics of Betaproteobacteria?

They are chemoheterotrophic rods and include pathogens like Bordetella.

What common feature does Deltaproteobacteria exhibit?

They include Bdellovibrio, which preys on other bacteria.

What are the unique features of Spirochetes?

They are tightly coiled, have unique axial filaments for motility, and include Borrelia, Leptospira, and Treponema.

What environments are Archaea typically found in?

They can be found in extreme environments such as deep ocean hydrothermal vents, acidic sulfur hot springs, and highly saline habitats.

What are methanogens and their role?

Methanogens are a group of archaea that convert carbon dioxide and hydrogen gas into methane, playing a role in organic waste degradation.

What differentiates high GC Firmicutes from low GC Firmicutes?

High GC Firmicutes typically form filaments and conidiospores, while low GC Firmicutes include endospore-producing bacteria.

What are the defining characteristics of Chlamydias?

Chlamydias are Gram-negative, obligate intracellular pathogens that do not divide by binary fission.

Name one organism from the Epsilonproteobacteria and its associated condition.

Helicobacter, which is associated with peptic ulcers and stomach cancer.

What is the function of the nitrogen-fixing cells called heterocysts in cyanobacteria?

They contain enzymes necessary for nitrogen fixation.