Bacteria Basics

Basic Structure DNA Plasmid Flagella Pilius- transfers DNA Ribosome Capsule (slime layer) Cell wall Plasma membrane Cytoplasm

Bacteria Shape Bacteria come in 3 basic shapes Coccus- sphere shaped Bacillus – rod shaped Spirillum- spiral shaped

Bacteria Growth Mono – cells grow alone Diplo – cells grow in pairs Tetra – cells grow in groups of four Strepto – cells grow in long chains Staphylo – cells grow in clusters

Bacteria Reproduction Binary Fission- asexual reproduction found in bacteria, result two genetically identical cells Conjugation- transfer of genetic material between bacteria through the pilus.

Gram Staining Staining technique used to identify bacteria. The stain is absorbed by the cell wall. Gram (+) purple Gram (-) pink – usually more pathogenic

Harmful Bacteria Bacteria cause harm in 2 ways. Produce toxins or poisons that harm an individual Interfere with normal functions.