Eubacteria Flashcards

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What is eubacteria?

A kingdom that contains all prokaryotes except archaebacteria.

What is peptidoglycan?

A protein-carbohydrate compound that makes the cell walls of bacteria rigid.

What is a plasmid?

A small ring of DNA that carries accessory genes separate from those of the bacterial chromosome.

What are some benefits of fermentation?

Yogurt is formed from the fermentation of milk; vinegar is usually a fermented form of apple cider. Signup and view all the answers

What is the nucleoid?

A nucleus-like region that contains the DNA of the Eubacteria cell. Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of ribosomes in bacteria?

Ribosomes contain RNA and translate the genetic message into proteins. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the cell membrane?

It is a semi-permeable layer that transports nutrients and waste in and out of the cell. Signup and view all the answers

What is a pilus?

Hair-like structures on the outside of the cell used to interact with other Eubacteria. Signup and view all the answers

What is a flagellum?

A long hair-like structure that aids in the movement of Eubacteria. Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the capsule?

It is a protective covering for the Eubacteria that stores food and removes waste. Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the cell wall?

It gives the cell shape and protects it from pressure differences. Signup and view all the answers

What are the typical sizes of Eubacteria?

They range in size from 0.5 µm to 5 µm. Signup and view all the answers

Which shapes are most common for Eubacteria?

Spiral - twisted or comma shaped Signup and view all the answers

How do Eubacteria reproduce?

Eubacteria reproduce through binary fission and conjugation. Signup and view all the answers

Eubacteria reproduce only asexually.

False Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between legumes and Eubacteria?

Rhizobium family of Eubacteria attach to the roots of legumes and fix soil nitrogen. Signup and view all the answers

Why is uncooked meat considered bad for health?

It can carry E. Coli, which is known to cause food poisoning. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Eubacteria Overview

Eubacteria is a kingdom encompassing all prokaryotes excluding archaebacteria.
They play essential roles in fermentation, exemplified by the creation of yogurt and vinegar.

Cellular Structure

Peptidoglycan: A compound forming rigid bacterial cell walls, composed of polypeptides and modified sugars.
Nucleoid: A nucleus-like region containing the bacterium's DNA.
Ribosomes: Cytoplasmic particles involved in protein synthesis by translating genetic messages into proteins.
Cell Membrane: Also known as the plasma membrane; it is semi-permeable and regulates nutrient and waste transport.
Capsule: Protective covering that aids in food storage and waste removal.
Cell Wall: A protective, rigid structure made of peptidoglycan that maintains cell shape and withstands pressure.

Cellular Features

Plasmid: Small DNA rings carrying accessory genes, independent of chromosomal DNA.
Pili: Hair-like structures facilitating interaction between Eubacteria.
Flagella: Long, whip-like structures enabling locomotion; movement speeds can reach about 50 µm/s.

Characteristics of Eubacteria

Size: Generally microscopic, ranging from 0.5 µm to 5 µm.
Shapes: Common forms include cocci (spherical), bacilli (rod-shaped), and spiral (twisted/comma-shaped).
DNA Structure: Each Eubacterium contains a single chromosome in the nucleoid, with additional plasmid DNA for replication.

Movement and Reproduction

Movement: Many Eubacteria use one or multiple flagella, which can be positioned variously on the cell body.
Reproduction: Eubacteria reproduce via binary fission (asexual) and conjugation (sexual).
- In binary fission, cells divide into two.
- During conjugation, two cells connect through pili, forming a mating bridge that transfers plasmid DNA.

Interactions with Other Organisms

Eubacteria and legumes, especially the Rhizobium family, collaborate by fixing nitrogen in soil, which is vital for plant survival.
Certain Eubacteria, such as E. coli, can cause foodborne illnesses, particularly from contaminated uncooked meat.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

Test your knowledge on eubacteria with these flashcards! Each card highlights key terms and definitions essential for understanding this kingdom of prokaryotes. Perfect for biology students looking to reinforce their learning.