Bacteria: Nature's Tiny Workers

Single-celled organisms found everywhere, with both harmful and beneficial qualities.
Application
Microbiology | Biotechnology | Ecology | Microorganisms | Antibiotics | Probiotics | Pathogens
Prepared by Lee Cheng, reviewed by Dr. Helena Rodriguez

Bacteria FAQ


Image credit: commons.wikimedia.org

What are the characteristics of bacteria?

bacteria, Group of microscopic, single-celled organisms that inhabit virtually all environments, including soil, water, organic matter, and the bodies of multicellular animals. Bacteria are distinguished in part by their morphological and genetic features; for instance, they may have spherical, rodlike, or spiral shapes.

Where do bacteria live?

They constitute a large domain of prokaryotic microorganisms. Typically a few micrometres in length, bacteria were among the first life forms to appear on Earth, and are present in most of its habitats. Bacteria inhabit soil, water, acidic hot springs, radioactive waste, and the deep biosphere of Earth's crust.

What is a bacterium & why is it important?

Bacteria are microbes—living organisms that are too small to be seen without a microscope. Bacteria are so tiny that if lined up, 1,000 could span the width of a pencil eraser. Each bacterium (singular of bacteria) consists of a single cell. Bacteria play essential roles in the Earth's ecosystems. They are also helpful to humans in many ways.

How many cells are in a bacterium?

Had. Bacteria ( / bækˈtɪəriə / ⓘ; sg.: bacterium) are ubiquitous, mostly free-living organisms often consisting of one biological cell. They constitute a large domain of prokaryotic microorganisms. Typically a few micrometres in length, bacteria were among the first life forms to appear on Earth, and are present in most of its habitats.

Bacteria References

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