Types of microorganisms

Question 1

Bacteria Description: (what it is, typical size and examples)

Answer 1

Bacteria are single-celled organisms whose DNA is not contained inside a membrane-bound nucleus.

Imagine the DNA is backing away from the exterior of the nucleus.

Question 2

Viruses Description: (what is consists of, typical size and examples)

Answer 2

A virus consists of a piece of DNA or RNA wrapped in a protein coat. Viruses cannot reproduce unless inside a host cell.
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Typical Size: 20–300 nm
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Examples: AIDS, influenza (the flu), hepatitis, SARS, measles

Imagine quarantining in a protein coat.

Question 3

Protozoans Description: (what it is, typical size and examples)

Answer 3

Protozoans are single-celled organisms whose DNA is inside a membrane bound nucleus.

Typical Size: 2–200 μm

Examples: Malaria, toxoplasmosis, amoebic
dysentery, cryptosporidium.

Imagine being alone stuck inside a nucleus.

Question 4

Fungi Description: (what it is made up of, typical size and examples)

Answer 4

Fungi are made up of one or more cells that have a cell wall, true nucleus and no chloroplasts.

Question 5

Microparasites Description: (typical size and examples)

Answer 5

Macroparasites can be seen without a microscope.

Typical Size: Size varies greatly but can be seen without a microscope

Examples: Head lice infestation, flea infestation,
elephantitis (caused by a nematode
worm)

Question 6

Prions Description: (typical size and examples)

Answer 6

Typical Size: 0.2–5 μm

Examples:
- Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD)
- Fatal Familial Insomnia.
- Kuru.

Question 7

1 nm = ? μm

Answer 7

1000 μm

Question 8

1 μm = ? m

Answer 8

0.000 001 m