Variety of Living Organisms Flashcards
Why are viruses not considered living organisms?
They can only reproduce after invading the cells of another organism.
What are viruses made of?
A protein coat surrounding nucleic acids (DNA or RNA but not both).
Give an example of a virus?
HIV or influenza.
What is a pathogen?
An organism that causes disease.
Name four types of pathogens?
Fungi, protoctists, bacteria, and viruses.
What causes athlete’s foot?
A fungal infection caused by the tinea fungus.
What type of pathogen causes malaria?
A protoctist called Plasmodium.
How does Plasmodium cause malaria?
It infects and destroys red blood cells.
What illnesses can bacteria cause?
Meningitis cholera, and food poisoning.
Which bacterium causes food poisoning?
Salmonella.
What diseases are caused by viruses?
The common cold, flu and ebola
