Classification of Microorganisms

Study Notes

Bacterial Structure

The hard outer covering of bacteria is known as the cell wall, providing protection and shape.

Bacterial Classification

Rod-shaped bacteria are classified as bacilli; examples include Escherichia coli and Bacillus anthracis.

Nutrition in Fungi

Fungi obtain nutrition through saprophytic (decomposing organic matter) or parasitic means, primarily absorbing nutrients from their environment.

Multicellular Fungi

An example of a large, multicellular fungus is mushroom, which belongs to the phylum Basidiomycota.

Protozoan Movement

Amoeba, a type of protozoa, utilizes pseudopodia for movement, extending parts of its cell body to propel itself.

Nutrition in Algae

Algae primarily undergo photosynthesis for nutrition, utilizing sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to produce their own food.

Algal Structure

Non-vascular algae, such as green algae (Chlorophyta), lack true roots, stems, leaves, and vascular tissues, distinguishing them from higher plants.

Virus Reproduction

The main mode of reproduction for viruses is asexual, primarily through budding or lytic cycles, where the virus hijacks the host cell’s machinery to replicate.

Bacteriophages

An example of a bacteriophage, which is a virus that infects bacteria, is the T4 phage, specifically targeting Escherichia coli.

Microbiology Pioneer

Louis Pasteur is recognized as the father of microbiology, contributing significantly to the understanding of fermentation and disease prevention through vaccination.

Description

Learn about the classification, characteristics, and types of bacteria, the simplest and oldest microorganisms. Explore the different shapes of bacteria, such as bacilli, cocci, vibrios, and spirilla. Understand how bacteria remain inactive and multiply under favorable conditions.