Bacteria Essay Research Paper True cells

Bacteria Essay, Research Paper True cells with a wall, membrane, cytoplasm, ribosomes and DNA. No distinct nucleus DNA not incorporated in chromosomes but comprising a single, circular strand Bacteria may have plasmids = a circle of a few genes which can move between bacteria. These may contain antibiotic resistant genes. These are often used as a vector in genetic engineering. Membrane?bounded organelles are absent Cell wall of protein and polysaccharide Motile if possess flagella Spherical (cocci), rod shaped (bacilli) or spiral shaped (spirilla) Most are heterotropic ? obtaining energy from the oxidation of breakdown of organic matter. They are parasitic, saprobiontic or mutualistic. Some are chemaoautotrophic ? obtaining energy from the oxidation of inorganic materials Some are photoautotrophic Bacteria reproduce by binary fission Bacteria are a source of antibiotics Pathogenic bacteria are intercellular parasites and the symptoms of a disease are often caused by the toxins they produce.