Microorganism Notes

Microorganisms

• Microorganisms are tiny organisms that can only be seen with a microscope.

Types of Microorganisms

• Viruses
• Bacteria
• Fungi
• Protista

Viruses

• Tiny particles that attack healthy cells.
• Lack cytoplasm and a nucleus.
• Composed of a protein coat and genetic material.
• Require a host cell to reproduce.
• Examples:
  • Helical (e.g., Tobacco Mosaic Virus)
  • Polyhedral (e.g., Adenovirus)
  • Spherical (e.g., Influenza Virus)
  • Complex (e.g., Bacteriophage)

Bacteria

• Unicellular organisms found in various environments.
• Reproduce quickly.
• Classified by shape (spherical, rod-shaped, spiral).
• Antibiotics are effective against bacteria.
• Some bacteria cause diseases, while others are used to make products like cheese.

Protists

• Usually unicellular, but some can be large (e.g., seaweed).
• Many live in aquatic environments.
• Some cause diseases (e.g., malaria).

Fungi

• Feed on dead and decaying organic matter.
• Include yeast, bread mold, and mushrooms.
• Come in various shapes.