Chapter 4 Prokaryotic Diversity Flashcards
(15 cards)
What is the difference between resident and transient microbiota?
Resident microbiota live in or on the body long-term, while transient microbiota are temporary and may include pathogens.
What is mutualism? Give an example.
Mutualism is a symbiotic relationship where both organisms benefit.
Example: E. coli in the gut producing vitamin K.
Which class of Proteobacteria includes Rickettsia and Rhizobium?
Alphaproteobacteria.
Which Proteobacteria class contains Neisseria and Bordetella?
Betaproteobacteria.
What is a characteristic feature of Spirochetes?
They are spiral-shaped and move via axial filaments.
What role do Cyanobacteria play in the environment?
They perform oxygenic photosynthesis and can fix nitrogen.
Which gram-positive group includes Mycobacterium and Streptomyces?
High G+C gram-positive bacteria (Actinobacteria).
What is unique about Mycoplasma?
They lack a cell wall and are classified as low G+C gram-positive bacteria.
Name a deeply branching bacterium that is highly radiation-resistant.
Deinococcus radiodurans aka “Conan the Bacterium”
What is a defining feature of Archaea cell membranes?
They have ether-linked lipids with branched isoprene chains.
Which Archaea produce methane?
Methanogens (Euryarchaeota).
What type of environment do Halobacteria prefer?
Highly saline environments (salt-loving).
What is the function of bacteriorhodopsin in Halobacteria?
It helps them perform a form of photosynthesis and gives them a purple color.
What diseases can Helicobacter pylori cause?
Chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, and stomach cancer.
What is the metabolic advantage of prokaryotic flexibility?
It allows them to switch energy sources based on environmental availability.
