1. KEY CONCEPT Prokaryotes perform important functions for organisms and ecosystems.

2. Prokaryotes provide nutrients to humans and other animals.
Prokaryotes live in digestive systems of animals.
make vitamins
break down food
fill niches

3. Bacteria help ferment many foods.
yogurt, cheese
pickles, sauerkraut
soy sauce, vinegar
Buttermilk, sour cream
Cottage cheese

4. Prokaryotes play important roles in ecosystems.
Prokaryotes have many functions in ecosystems.
photosynthesize
recycle carbon, nitrogen, hydrogen, sulfur
fix nitrogen
convert nitrogen in air into
ammonia and other nitrogen
compounds that plants can
use
Use legumes: peanuts, soy
beans, alfalfa, clover

5. Nitrogen Cycle/ Nitrogen Fixation

6. Bioremediation uses prokaryotes to break down pollutants.
oil spills
biodegradable materials
capture microscopic particles like gold and copper
from mining