Prokaryote Lineages definitions Flashcards

A diverse clade of gram-negative bacteria, organized into five subgroups (alpha, beta, gamma, delta, epsilon), involved in nitrogen fixation and the origin of mitochondria in eukaryotes.

Bacteria with a thin peptidoglycan layer beneath an outer lipopolysaccharide membrane, often resistant to antibiotics and stain pink in the Gram stain test.

The process by which certain bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen (N₂) into a form usable by plants and other organisms, typically ammonia (NH₃).

Organelles in eukaryotic cells that generate ATP through cellular respiration, originally derived from engulfed proteobacteria.

A group of gram-negative bacteria lacking peptidoglycan in their cell walls, all of which are intracellular parasites, including the species responsible for the STD known by the same name.

A polymer forming a mesh-like layer outside the plasma membrane of most bacteria, providing structural support and shape.

A molecule found in the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria, consisting of a lipid and a polysaccharide, which elicits strong immune responses in animals.

Gram-negative heterotrophic bacteria with a distinctive corkscrew shape, known for causing Lyme disease and syphilis.

Organisms that obtain energy by consuming other organisms or organic matter, as they cannot produce their own food through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis.

Gram-negative photoautotrophs performing oxygenic photosynthesis, crucial for atmospheric oxygen and nitrogen fixation, and ancestors of chloroplasts. Often misnamed blue-green algae.

Organisms that use light energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into organic compounds and oxygen, playing a crucial role in producing atmospheric oxygen.

Photosynthesis that produces oxygen as a byproduct, primarily carried out by cyanobacteria, which contributed to the origin of atmospheric oxygen.

Layered structures formed by cyanobacteria trapping and binding sediment, often considered the oldest known fossils, dating back over a billion years.

High GC gram-positive bacteria, often misclassified as fungi due to their branching mycelia. They include Streptomyces, a genus crucial for antibiotic production.

Low GC gram-positive bacteria, crucial for fermentation (e.g., yogurt, cheese, sour beer) and human health, including gut and vaginal microbiota.