Metabolic Cooperation (Prokaryotes) Flashcards
1
Q
heterocysts
A
specialised cells that only carry out nitrogen Fixation. They are surrounded by a thickened cell wall that restricts entry of O2 produced by neighbouring cells and to receive carbs.
2
Q
Biofilm
A
metabolic cooperation between cells of one or more prokaryotic species often occurs in surface-coating colonies. Cells in a biofilm secrete signalling molecules that recruit nearby cells, increasing colony size. They also produce polysaccharides and proteins that stick the cells together and to the substrate. These polysaccharides and proteins form the capsule, or slime, layer. Channels allow nutrients to reach the inner cells. Very common in nature and cause a range of problems for humans (e.g. tooth decay)
