Prokaryote Cell Structures exam Flashcards

Organisms, including bacteria and archaea, that lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

The region in a prokaryotic cell where the DNA is concentrated.

Gram-positive bacteria have a thick peptidoglycan layer, while gram-negative bacteria have a thin peptidoglycan layer and an outer membrane of lipopolysaccharides.

Small, extra-chromosomal DNA molecules found in prokaryotes.

A polymer consisting of sugars and amino acids that forms a mesh-like layer outside the plasma membrane of most bacteria, providing structural support.

To provide shape and protect the cell from osmotic pressure.

A staining technique used to classify bacteria based on the structure of their cell walls.

Hair-like appendages that allow bacteria to adhere to surfaces.

A polysaccharide layer that surrounds some prokaryotic cells, providing protection and aiding in adherence to surfaces.

Dormant, tough, and non-reproductive structures produced by some bacteria to survive extreme conditions.

Flagella are used for locomotion and sometimes sensation.

A tube-like appendage used by bacteria to transfer DNA during conjugation.

A domain of prokaryotes that are biochemically distinct from bacteria and often found in extreme environments.

Archaea lack peptidoglycan in their cell walls and have unique membrane compositions.

Organisms, often archaea, that thrive in extreme environmental conditions.

A type of archaea that produces methane as a byproduct of their metabolism.

Prokaryotes make up 60% of Earth's biomass and are essential to ecological and evolutionary dynamics.

A process by which one bacterium transfers genetic material to another through direct contact.

It is a gap between the outer membrane and the plasma membrane, important for various cellular processes.

Archaea that thrive in extremely hot environments, such as hot springs and hydrothermal vents.

Archaea that thrive in highly saline environments, such as the Dead Sea.

Prokaryotic DNA is typically circular and double-stranded.

Molecules consisting of lipids and polysaccharides that form the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria.

The capsule provides an additional protective layer and helps in adherence to surfaces.

The movement of genetic material between organisms, which can occur through processes like conjugation in prokaryotes.

Peptidoglycan is composed of sugar chains cross-linked by small peptides.

Endospores allow bacteria to survive in harsh conditions by entering a dormant state.

It helps classify bacteria based on their cell wall structure, distinguishing between gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.