Microorganisms Class 14 Flashcards

Study Notes

Classes of Microorganisms

Major classes include Bacteria, Protozoa, Fungi, Rickettsiae, and Viruses.

Bacteria

Simple, one-celled organisms that reproduce rapidly.

Classification of Bacteria

Bacteria are classified by shape and arrangement.

Cocci

Round and spherical bacteria.
Variants include:
- Diplococci: Occur in pairs and can cause gonorrhea, meningitis, and pneumonia.
- Streptococci: Occur in chains, leading to severe sore throat (strep throat) and rheumatic fever.
- Staphylococci: Occur in clusters, associated with infections such as boils, urinary tract infections, wound infections, and toxic shock.

Bacilli

Rod-shaped bacteria that can occur singly, in pairs, or chains.
Many bacilli possess flagella for movement and can form spores or thick-walled capsules under adverse growth conditions, making them hard to eliminate.
Associated with diseases such as tuberculosis, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), botulism, diphtheria, and typhoid.

Flagella

Thread-like projections resembling tails that enable bacterial movement.

Spirilla

Spiral or corkscrew-shaped bacteria.
Variants include:
- Vibrio: Comma-shaped bacteria.
- Spirochete: Corkscrew-shaped bacteria, linked to diseases like syphilis and cholera.

Antibiotics

Medications designed to kill bacteria.

Antibiotic Resistance

When bacteria become unaffected by antibiotics, they are referred to as antibiotic-resistant.

Description

This quiz covers the classes of microorganisms, including bacteria, protozoa, fungi, rickettsiae, and viruses. Each flashcard provides definitions and classifications for different types of microorganisms and their characteristics. Perfect for studying microbiology terminology and concepts.