Characteristics of Prokaryotic Organisms

Characteristics of Prokaryotic Organisms

• Lack a nucleus and organelles except ribosomes, distinguishing them from eukaryotic organisms.
• Ribosomes are smaller in size compared to those found in eukaryotes.
• Contain circular DNA that is not associated with proteins.
• May possess plasmids, which are additional circular DNA molecules.
• Often covered with a protective slime capsule.
• Surrounded by a cell wall made of murein, a polymer of proteins and carbohydrates.
• Cytoplasm holds stored food in the forms of glycogen and lipids.
• Some prokaryotes have flagella (singular: flagellum), which aid in locomotion.
• Certain types can contain chlorophyll, enabling them to perform photosynthesis.

Shapes of Bacteria

• Bacteria can be classified into three main shapes:
  • Spiral
  • Spherical
  • Rod-shaped

Binomial Nomenclature

• The system for naming species using a two-word format.
• The first word represents the genus and is capitalized; the second word denotes the species and begins with a lowercase letter.
• Names are written in Latin, either in italics or underlined.
• Example: Humans are named Homo sapiens, where "Homo" is the genus and "sapiens" is the species.

Characteristics of Prokaryotic Organisms

• Lack a nucleus and organelles except ribosomes, distinguishing them from eukaryotic organisms.
• Ribosomes are smaller in size compared to those found in eukaryotes.
• Contain circular DNA that is not associated with proteins.
• May possess plasmids, which are additional circular DNA molecules.
• Often covered with a protective slime capsule.
• Surrounded by a cell wall made of murein, a polymer of proteins and carbohydrates.
• Cytoplasm holds stored food in the forms of glycogen and lipids.
• Some prokaryotes have flagella (singular: flagellum), which aid in locomotion.
• Certain types can contain chlorophyll, enabling them to perform photosynthesis.

Shapes of Bacteria

• Bacteria can be classified into three main shapes:
  • Spiral
  • Spherical
  • Rod-shaped

Binomial Nomenclature

• The system for naming species using a two-word format.
• The first word represents the genus and is capitalized; the second word denotes the species and begins with a lowercase letter.
• Names are written in Latin, either in italics or underlined.
• Example: Humans are named Homo sapiens, where "Homo" is the genus and "sapiens" is the species.

This quiz explores the main characteristics of prokaryotic organisms, including their cellular structure, DNA composition, and protective features. Learn about the unique characteristics that distinguish prokaryotes from other life forms, such as their lack of a nucleus and specialized organelles.