Origin & Diversification of Prokaryotes Flashcards
not living
abiotic
Synthesis of simplistic cells
1.) abiotic synthesis of small organic molecules
2.) small organic molecules join into macromolecules
3.) packed into protocells
4.) origin of self-replicating molecules
membrane-bound droplets that maintain a consistent internal chemistry
protocells
Where can prokaryotes thrive?
almost everywhere
What are the major differences of prokaryotes from eukaryotes?
- no nucleus
- lack organelles
- 1 circular chromosome
- 0-5 um
- unicellular
- binary fission
What are the major difference of eukaryotes from prokaryotes?
- has a nucleus
- membrane-bound organelles
- less than 1 linear chromosome
- 10-100 um
- mostly unicellular
- sexual reproduction
What are the key features of prokaryotic cells?
- lack internal compartmentalization
- structures help them adhere to each other, substrates, & important molecules
- many can move around
- specialized membranes that perform metabolic functions
- small genome
- reproduce by binary fission
cell incorporates DNA from the surrounding environment
transformation
movement of genes between bacteria by viruses
transduction
genetic material is transferred between temporary joined cells
conjugation
when genes are mixed between species
horizontal gene transfer
live in extreme environments
extremophiles
organisms that live in very hot environments
thermophiles
organisms that live in highly saline environments
halophiles
conversion of carbon molecules into organic matter
chemosynthesis
What does Archaea produce as a waste?
methane
Where do Archaea live?
swamps, marshes, guts of cattle, hydrothermal vents
What can Archaea not withstand?
oxygen exposure
two species living in close contact
symbiosis
both symbiotic organisms benefit
mutualism
one organism benefits , other isn’t harmed or helped
commensalism
one organism harms but doesn’t kill the host
parasitism
Prokaryotes cause approximately half of all ____ ____.
human diseases
Prokaryotes recycle chemicals between _____ & ______ parts of ecosystems.
living; non-living
Prokaryotes can increase or decrease available ____, ____, & ___ in the biosphere.
nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium
How have prokaryotes affected research and technology?
- advances in DNA technology
- bacteria used to make natural plastics
- bacteria engineered to produce vitamins, antibiotics, and hormones
- bacteria engineered to produce ethanol from waste
- principal agents in bioremediation
use of organisms to remove pollutants from the environment
bioremediation
