Bacteria Flashcards
1
Q
Who invented bacteria?
When?
A
Antoine Van Leeuwenhoek
1683
2
Q
What is the effect of bacteria on hosts body? (3)
A
- Destroy body cells then used as food source
- Absorb bodily fluids (blood)
- Release harmful toxins: cause high temp, block metabolic pathways
3
Q
Characteristics:
Effect on its environment
A
Abundant Mostly useful (some are disease causing)
4
Q
4 types of shapes:
A
Cocci: spherical
Bacilli: rod-shaped
Spiralla: spiral-shaped
Vibrous: comma-shaped
Either exist singularly in chains or in clumps
5
Q
How do they reproduce?
A
By Binary Fission: asexual process where single cell divides into two with identical DNA
Reproduce rapidly in favorable conditions
6
Q
What are unfavorable conditions?
What occurs in these conditions?
A
High temperature, dryness
Become dormant, form spores with protective coat, later spore splits and releases bacterium
