Bacteria
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• True cells with a wall, membrane, cytoplasm, ribosomes and DNA.
• No distinct nucleus
• DNA not incorporated in chromosomes but comprising a single, circular strand
• Bacteria may have plasmids = a circle of a few genes which can move between bacteria. These may contain antibiotic resistant genes. These are often used as a vector in genetic engineering.
• Membrane–bounded organelles are absent
• Cell wall of protein and polysaccharide
• Motile if possess flagella
• Spherical (cocci), rod shaped (bacilli) or spiral shaped (spirilla)
• Most are heterotropic – obtaining energy from the oxidation of breakdown of organic matter. They are parasitic, saprobiontic or mutualistic.
• Some are chemaoautotrophic – obtaining energy from the oxidation of inorganic materials
• Some are photoautotrophic
• Bacteria reproduce by binary fission
• Bacteria are a source of antibiotics
• Pathogenic bacteria are intercellular parasites and the symptoms of a disease are often caused by the toxins they produce.

Other Notes in this Category

1. Abortion Methods
2. Atmosphere and Pollution
3. Bacteria
4. Composition of Blood - Plasma, White Blood Cells, Red Blood Cells and Platelets
5. Down Syndrome
6. Enzyme Quiz
7. Fungi
8. Hereditary Diseases
9. Respiration and Osmosis
10. The Defences of the Human Body
11. The Heart Beat
12. Virii

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