Type strain is used for referring to? b.

Escherichia coli
a) species c. Klebsiella pneumoniae
d. Bacteroides fragilis

Microbiology MCQs 9. Which of the following is diagnosed by serologic means?

1. Which of these bacterial components is least likely to
contain useful antigens? a. Actinomycosis
b. Q-fever
c. Pulmonary tuberculosis
a. Cell wall d. Gonorrhea
b. Flagella
c. Ribosomes
d. Capsule Also Read: Bacteria
10. Diarrhoea is not caused by
2. Which of the following contains structures composed of N-
acetylmuramic acid and N- acetylglucosamine? a. Shigella dysenteriae
b. Streptococcus pyogenes
a. Mycoplasmas c. Clostridium difficile
b. Amoeba d. Salmonella enteriditis
c. E.coli
d. Spheroplast 11. The coagulase is done to differentiate

Also Read: Microbiology a. Staphylococcus aureus  from Staphylococcus epidermidis

3. The association of endotoxin in gram-negative bacteria is b. Staphylococcus epidermidis  from Neisseria meningitidis
due to the presence of c. Streptococcus pyogenes  from Enterococcus faecalis
d. Streptococcus pyogenes  from Staphylococcus aureus
a. Steroids
b. Peptidoglycan 12. Prokaryotic cells are more resistant to osmotic shock than
c. Lipopolysaccharides eukaryotic cells because
d. Polypeptide
a. Their cell wall is composed of peptidoglycan
4. The prokaryotic cell membrane b. They are selectively permeable
c. They contain osmoregulating porins
d. They block water molecules from entering the cell
a. Contains metabolic enzymes
b. Is selectively permeable
c. Regulates the entry and exit of materials Also Read: Prokaryotic cells
d. Contains proteins and phospholipids 13. The bacterial genus where sterols are present in the cell
membrane is
5. Which of the statements regarding gram staining is wrong?
a. Vibrio
a. Mycobacterium tuberculosis  stains blue because of the b. Mycoplasma
thick lipid layer c. Escherichia
b. Streptococcus pyogenes  stains blue because of a thick d. Chlamydia
peptidoglycan layer
c. Escherichia coli stains pink because of a thin 14. The bacterium that infects other gram-negative bacteria is
peptidoglycan layer
d. Mycoplasma pneumoniae  is not visible in the Gram’s stain
because it has no cell wall a. Proteus mirabilis
b. Haemophilus influenza
c. Bdellovibrio
Also Read: Gram positive and gram negative bacteria d. Pseudomonas putida
6. Which of the following is not a recognised cause of
diarrhoea? 15. Which phage is used for phage display technique?

a. Vibrio cholerae a. T7
b. Escherichia coli b. M13
c. Clostridium perfringens c. ƛ-phage
d. Enterococcus faecalis d. ɸ6

7. Which of the following is a gram-positive eubacterium? Also Read: Eukaryotic cells

a. Actinomyces Answer Key

b. Clostridium
c. Rhizobium
d. Clostridium, Actinomyces 1- c 2- c 3- c 4- d 5- a

6- d 7- d 8- d 9- b 10- b
8. Which of the following microorganisms is not responsible
for urinary tract infection?
11- a 12- a 13- b 14- c 15- b
a. Proteus mirabilis Microbiology is the study of a variety of living organisms which are
invisible to the naked eye like bacteria and fungi and many other
microscopic organisms. Although tiny in size these
organisms form the basis for all life on earth. These
microbes as they are also known to produce the soil in
which plants grow and the fix atmospheric gases that
both plants animals use. About 3 billion years ago at the
time of formation of the earth, microbes were the only
lives on earth. Microorganisms have played a key role in
the evolution of the planet earth.
Microorganisms affect animals, the environment, the food
supply and also the healthcare industry. There are many
different areas of microbiology including environmental,
veterinary, food, pharmaceutical and medical
microbiology, which is the most prominent.
Microorganisms are very important to the environment,
human health and the economy. Few have immense
beneficial effects without which we could not exist.
Others are really harmful, and our effort to overcome their effects Microbes especially prokaryotes are numerous in number in
tests our understanding and skills. Certain microorganisms can be comparison to eukaryotes.
beneficial or harmful depending on what we require from them. The lineage of life on Earth originated from these microbes:
1.Bacteria
Harmful Microorganisms
2.Archaea
Disease and decay are neither inherent properties of organic
objects, nor are caused by physical damage, it is microorganisms 3.Eucarya
that bring about these changes. We are surrounded by
bacteria, virus, and fungi. Many microorganisms cause diseases in
cattle, crops and others are known for entering human bodies and
Branches of microbiology
causing various diseases. There are various different branches in microbiology and these
Examples of familiar human diseases are: include the following:

Bacteria: pneumonia, bacterial dysentery, diphtheria, bubonic 1.Bacteriology- The study of bacteria

plague, meningitis, typhoid, cholera, salmonella, meningococcal 2.Mycology –The study of fungi
Virus:  Chickenpox, measles, mumps, German measles, colds, 3.Phycology- The study of photosynthetic eukaryotes. (Algae-
warts, cold sores, influenza Seaweed)
Protozoa: amoebic dysentery, malaria, 4.Protozoology – The study of protozoa (Single-celled eukaryotes)
Fungi: ringworm, athlete’s foot 5.Virology- The study of viruses, non-cellular particles which
parasitize cells.
Useful-Microorganisms 6.Parasitology- The study of parasites which include pathogenic
protozoa certain insects and helminth worms.
As decomposers, bacteria and fungi play an important role in an
ecosystem. They break down dead or waste organic matter and 7.Nematology- The study of nematodes.
release inorganic molecules. Green plants take these nutrients
which are in turn consumed by animals, and the products of these
plants and animals are again broken down by decomposers. Eukaryotic Cell Definition
Yeast is a single-celled fungus that lives naturally on the surface of “Eukaryotic cells are the cells that contain a
the fruit. It is economically important in bread-making and brewing
beer and also in the making of yoghurt. membrane bound nucleus and organelles.”
Most microorganisms are unicellular; if they are multicellular, they Table of Contents
lack highly differentiated tissues.
There fundamentally two different types of cells, One being  Explanation
Prokaryotic and the other Eukaryotic  Characteristics
 Structure
 Diagram
 Cell Cycle
 Examples

What is a Eukaryotic Cell?

Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus enclosed within the nuclear
membrane and form large and complex organisms. Protozoa, fungi,
plants, and animals all have eukaryotic cells. They are classified
under the kingdom Eukaryota.
They can maintain different environments in a single cell that allows
them to carry out various metabolic reactions. This helps them grow
many times larger than the prokaryotic cells.
Also refer: Difference between Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells
Characteristics of Eukaryotic Cells  It is made up of flat disc-shaped structures called
cisternae.
The features of eukaryotic cells are as follows:  It is absent in red blood cells of humans and sieve cells of
1. Eukaryotic cells have the nucleus enclosed within the plants.
nuclear membrane.  They are arranged parallel and concentrically near the
nucleus.
2. The cell has mitochondria.
 It is an important site for the formation of glycoproteins and
3. Flagella and cilia are the locomotory organs in a eukaryotic glycolipids.
cell.
Also read: Golgi Apparatus
4. A cell wall is the outermost layer of the eukaryotic cells.
5. The cells divide by a process called mitosis. Ribosomes
6. The eukaryotic cells contain a cytoskeletal structure. These are the main site for protein synthesis and are composed of
proteins and ribonucleic acids.
7. The nucleus contains a single, linear DNA, which carries all
the genetic information.
Mitochondria
Structure Of Eukaryotic Cell
 These are also known as “powerhouse of cells” because
The eukaryotic cell structure comprises the following: they produce energy.
 It consists of an outer membrane and an inner membrane.
Plasma Membrane The inner membrane is divided into folds called cristae.
 They help in the regulation of cell metabolism.
 The plasma membrane separates the cell from the outside
environment. Lysosomes
 It comprises specific embedded proteins, which help in the
They are known as “suicidal bags” because they possess hydrolytic
exchange of substances in and out of the cell.
enzymes to digest protein, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids.

Cell Wall Plastids

 A cell wall is a rigid structure present outside the plant cell. These are double-membraned structures and are found only
It is, however, absent in animal cells. in plant cells. These are of three types:
 It provides shape to the cell and helps in cell-to-cell  Chloroplast that contains chlorophyll and is involved in
interaction. photosynthesis.
 It is a protective layer that protects the cell from any injury  Chromoplast that contains a pigment called carotene that
or pathogen attacks. provides the plants yellow, red, or orange colours.
 It is composed of cellulose, hemicellulose, pectins,
proteins, etc.  Leucoplasts that are colourless and store oil, fats,
carbohydrates, or proteins.
Also refer: Cell Wall 

Cytoskeleton Eukaryotic Cell Diagram

Eukaryotic cell diagram mentioned below depicts different cell
The cytoskeleton is present inside the cytoplasm, which consists of
organelles present in eukaryotic cells. The nucleus, endoplasmic
microfilaments, microtubules, and fibres to provide perfect shape to
reticulum, cytoplasm, mitochondria, ribosomes, lysosomes are
the cell, anchor the organelles, and stimulate the cell movement.
clearly mentioned in the diagram.
Explore more about Cell organelles
Endoplasmic Reticulum
It is a network of small, tubular structures that divides the cell
surface into two parts: luminal and extraluminal. Eukaryotic Cell Diagram illustrated above shows the presence of a
Endoplasmic Reticulum is of two types: true nucleus.

 Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum contains ribosomes.

Eukaryotic Cell Cycle
 Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum that lacks ribosomes and
is therefore smooth. The eukaryotic cells divide during the cell cycle. The cell passes
through different stages during the cycle. There are various
checkpoints between each stage.
Nucleus
Quiescence (G0)
 The nucleoplasm enclosed within the nucleus contains
DNA and proteins. This is known as the resting phase, and the cell does not divide
during this stage. The cell cycle starts at this stage. The cells of the
 The nuclear envelop consists of two layers- the outer liver, kidney, neurons, and stomach all reach this stage and can
membrane and the inner membrane. Both the membranes remain there for longer periods. Many cells do not enter this stage
are permeable to ions, molecules, and RNA material. and divide indefinitely throughout their lives.
 Ribosome production also takes place inside the nucleus.
Interphase
Golgi Apparatus
In this stage, the cells grow and take in nutrients to prepare them for Eukaryotic cells may be unicellular or multicellular. Paramecium,
the division. It consists of three Euglena, Trypanosoma, Dinoflagellates are unicellular eukaryotes.
Plants and animals are multicellular eukaryotes.
checkpoints:
Gap 1 (G1) – Here the cell enlarges. The proteins also increase. What is the most important characteristic of
Synthesis (S) – DNA replication takes place in this phase. eukaryotic cells that distinguishes it from prokaryotic
Gap 2 (G2) – Ther cells enlarge further to undergo mitotic division. cells?
Eukaryotic cells have a membrane-bound nucleus. On the contrary,
Mitosis prokaryotic cells lack a true nucleus, i.e., they have no nuclear
membrane. Unlike eukaryotic cells, the prokaryotic cells do not have
Mitosis involves the following stages: mitochondria, chloroplast and endoplasmic reticulum.
 Prophase
 Prometaphase
Are viruses eukaryotes?
Viruses are neither eukaryotes nor prokaryotes. Since viruses are a
 Metaphase
link between living and non-living they are not considered in either
 Anaphase category.

 Telophase
What are the salient features of a eukaryotic cell?
 Cytokinesis
A eukaryotic cell has the following important features:
On division, each daughter cell is an exact replica of the original
cell.  A eukaryotic cell has a nuclear membrane.
 It has mitochondria, Golgi bodies, cell wall.
Examples of Eukaryotic Cells  It also contains locomotory organs such as cilia and
Eukaryotic cells are exclusively found in plants, animals, fungi, flagella.
protozoa, and other complex organisms. The examples of  The nucleus has a DNA that carries all the genetic
eukaryotic cells are mentioned below: information.

Plant Cells How does a eukaryotic cell divide?

The cell wall is made up of cellulose, which provides support to the A eukaryotic cell divides by the process of mitosis. It undergoes the
plant. It has a large vacuole which maintains the turgor pressure. following stages during cell division:
The plant cell contains chloroplast, which aids in the process of
photosynthesis.
 Prophase
 Metaphase
Fungal Cells
 Anaphase
The cell wall is made of chitin. Some fungi have holes known as
 Telophase
septa which allow the organelles and cytoplasm to pass through
them.  Cytokinesis

Animal Cells When did the first eukaryotic cell evolve?

These do not have cell walls. Instead, they have a cell membrane. The first eukaryotic cells evolved about 2 billion years ago. This is
That is why animals have varied shapes. They have the ability to explained by the endosymbiotic theory that explains the origin of
perform phagocytosis and pinocytosis. eukaryotic cells by the prokaryotic organisms. Mitochondria and
chloroplasts are believed to have evolved from symbiotic bacteria.
Protozoa
What is the evidence for endosymbiotic theory?
Protozoans are unicellular organisms. Some protozoa have cilia for
locomotion. A thin layer called pellicle provides supports to the cell. The first evidence in support of the endosymbiotic theory is that
mitochondria and chloroplast have their own DNA and this DNA is
For more information on Eukaryotic Cells, its definition, similar to the bacterial DNA. The organelles use their DNA to
characteristics, structure, and examples, keep visiting BYJU’S produce several proteins and enzymes to carry out certain activities.
website or download BYJU’S app for further reference.

Related Links
Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

Difference between the Plant cell and Animal cell

Frequently Asked Questions

Are eukaryotic cells unicellular or multicellular?

Prokaryotic Cell Definition 7. Ribosomes– These are involved in protein synthesis.
8. Plasmids– Plasmids are non-chromosomal DNA
“Prokaryotic cells are the cells that do not have a structures. These are not involved in reproduction.
true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.”
9. Nucleoid Region– It is the region in the cytoplasm where
Table of Contents the genetic material is present.
A prokaryotic cell lacks certain organelles like mitochondria,
 Explanation endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi bodies.
 Characteristics
 Structure Prokaryotic Cell Diagram
 Diagram The prokaryotic cell diagram given below represents a bacterial cell.
 Components It depicts the absence of a true nucleus and the presence of a
flagellum that differentiates it from a eukaryotic cell.
 Reproduction
 Examples
Prokaryotic Cell Diagram illustrates the absence of a true nucleus
What is a Prokaryotic Cell?
Prokaryotic cells are single-celled microorganisms known to be the
Components of Prokaryotic Cells
earliest on earth. Prokaryotes include Bacteria and Archaea. The The prokaryotic cells have four main components:
photosynthetic prokaryotes include cyanobacteria that perform
photosynthesis. Plasma Membrane- It is an outer protective covering of
phospholipid molecules which separates the cell from the
A prokaryotic cell consists of a single membrane and therefore, all surrounding environment.
the reactions occur within the cytoplasm. They can be free-living or
parasites. Cytoplasm- It is a jelly-like substance present inside the cell. All the
cell organelles are suspended in it.

Characteristics of Prokaryotic Cell DNA- It is the genetic material of the cell. All the prokaryotes
possess a circular DNA. It directs what proteins the cell creates. It
Prokaryotic cells have different characteristic features. The also regulates the actions of the cell.
characteristics of the prokaryotic cells are mentioned below.
Ribosomes- Protein synthesis occurs here.
1. They lack a nuclear membrane.
2. Mitochondria, Golgi bodies, chloroplast, and lysosomes are
absent.
3. The genetic material is present on a single chromosome.
4. The histone proteins, the important constituents of
eukaryotic chromosomes, are lacking in them.
5. The cell wall is made up of carbohydrates and amino
acids.
6. The plasma membrane acts as the mitochondrial
membrane carrying respiratory enzymes.
7. They divide asexually by binary fission. The sexual mode
of reproduction involves conjugation.

Prokaryotic Cell Structure
A prokaryotic cell does not have a nuclear membrane. However,
the genetic material is present in a region in the cytoplasm known Some prokaryotic cells possess cilia and flagella which helps in
as the nucleoid. They may be spherical, rod-shaped, or spiral. A locomotion.
prokaryotic cell structure is as follows:
1. Capsule– It is an outer protective covering found in the Reproduction in Prokaryotes
bacterial cells, in addition to the cell wall. It helps in
moisture retention, protects the cell when engulfed, and A prokaryote reproduces in two ways:
helps in the attachment of cells to nutrients and surfaces.
 Asexually by binary fission
2. Cell Wall– It is the outermost layer of the cell which gives
shape to the cell.  Sexually by conjugation

3. Cytoplasm– The cytoplasm is mainly composed of

enzymes, salts, cell organelles and is a gel-like Binary Fission
component. 1. The DNA of an organism replicates and the new copies
4. Cell Membrane– This layer surrounds the cytoplasm and attach to the cell membrane.
regulates the entry and exit of substances in the cells. 2. The cell wall starts increasing in size and starts moving
5. Pili– These are hair-like outgrowths that attach to the inwards.
surface of other bacterial cells. 3. A cell wall is then formed between each DNA, dividing the
6. Flagella– These are long structures in the form of a whip, cell into two daughter cells.
that help in the locomotion of a cell.
Recombination  Cell membrane
 Capsule
In this process, genes from one bacteria are transferred to the
genome of other bacteria. It takes place in three ways-conjugation,  Pili
transformation, transduction.  Flagella
 Conjugation is the process in which genes are transferred  Ribosomes
between two bacteria through a protein tube structure  Plasmids
called a pilus.
 Transformation is the mode of sexual reproduction in How is the prokaryotic cell structure different from
which the DNA from the surroundings is taken by the
bacterial cell and incorporated in its DNA.
that of the eukaryotic cell?
Prokaryotic cells lack a true nucleus. The nucleus is devoid of the
 Transduction is the process in which the genetic material
nuclear membrane. On the contrary, the nucleus of the eukaryotic
is transferred into the bacterial cell with the help of viruses.
cells is enclosed by a nuclear membrane. A prokaryotic cell also
Bacteriophages are the virus that initiates the process.
lacks mitochondria and chloroplast, unlike a eukaryotic cell.

Examples of Prokaryotic Cells How does a prokaryotic cell divide?

The examples of the prokaryotic cells are mentioned below: Prokaryotic cells undergo asexual reproduction. Most prokaryotic
cells divide by binary fission, where the cells divide into two
Bacterial Cells daughter cells.

These are unicellular organisms found everywhere on earth from

soil to the human body. Why is the process of cell division in prokaryotic
They have different shapes and structures.
cells different from that in eukaryotes?
Prokaryotic cells are simpler than eukaryotic cells. They do not have
The cell wall is composed of peptidoglycan that provides structure
a nuclear membrane surrounding their DNA, therefore, cell division
to the cell wall.
is different than that in eukaryotes.
Bacteria have some unique structures such as pili, flagella and
capsule.
When did the prokaryotic cells evolve?
They also possess extrachromosomal DNA known as plasmids.
The first prokaryotic cells evolved around 3.5 billion years ago. The
They have the ability to form tough, dormant structures known as eukaryotic cells were formed after the prokaryotic cells and are
endospores that helps them to survive under unfavourable believed to have evolved from them.
conditions. The endospores become active when the conditions are
favourable again.
Bacteria
Archaeal Cells One of the very first organisms to evolve on earth was
Archaebacteria are unicellular organisms similar to bacteria in
probably a unicellular organism, similar to modern
shape and size. bacteria. Ever since then, life has evolved into a
They are found in extreme environments such as hot springs and
multitude of life forms over many millennia. However,
other places such as soil, marshes, and even inside humans. we can still trace our ancestry back to this single-celled
They have a cell wall and flagella. The cell wall of archaea does not
organism.
contain peptidoglycan.
Table of Contents
The membranes of the archaea have different lipids with a
completely different stereochemistry.
 Definition
Just like bacteria, archaea have one circular chromosome. They
 Diagram
also possess plasmids.
 Structure
For more information on Prokaryotic Cells, its definition, structure,
characteristics and examples, keep visiting BYJU’S Biology website  Classification
or download BYJU’S app for further reference.
 Reproduction
Related Links  Useful Bacteria
 Harmful Bacteria
Difference between a prokaryotic cell and eukaryotic cell
Today, bacteria are considered as one of the oldest
Difference between an archaea and bacteria forms of life on earth. Even though most bacteria make
us ill, they have a long-term, mutual relationship with
humans and are very much important for our survival.
Frequently Asked Questions But before we elaborate on its uses, let us know the
structure of bacteria, its classification, and the bacteria
What are the structural features of prokaryotic cells? diagram in detail.
The prokaryotic cell structure is composed of:
Bacteria Definition
 Cell wall
“Bacteria are unicellular organisms belonging to the Ribosomes are the sites of protein synthesis. In addition
prokaryotic group where the organisms lack a few to this DNA, they have an extra circular DNA called
organelles and a true nucleus”. plasmid. These plasmids make some strains of bacteria
Also Read: Gram Negative Bacteria resistant to antibiotics.
Also Read: Gram Positive Bacteria
Bacteria Diagram
The bacteria diagram given below represents the Classification of Bacteria
structure of bacteria with its different parts.  The cell
wall, plasmid, cytoplasm and flagella are clearly marked Bacteria can be classified into various categories based
in the diagram. on their features and characteristics. The classification
of bacteria is mainly based on the following:

 Shape
 Composition of the cell wall
 Mode of respiration
 Mode of nutrition

Classification of bacteria based on Shape

Type of Classification Examples

Escherichia coli (E. coli)

Bacteria Diagram representing the Structure of Bacteria Bacillus (Rod-shaped)

Structure of Bacteria Spirilla or spirochete (Spiral)

Spirillum volutans

The structure of bacteria is known for its simple body

design. Bacteria are single-celled microorganisms with Coccus (Sphere)
Streptococcus pneumoniae
the absence of the nucleus and other cell organelles;
hence, they are classified as prokaryotic organisms. Vibrio (Comma-shaped) Vibrio cholerae
They are also very versatile organisms, surviving in
extremely inhospitable conditions. Such organisms are
called extremophiles. Extremophiles are further Classification of bacteria based on the Composition of
categorized into various types based on the types of the Cell Wall
environments they inhabit:
Type of Classification Examples
1. Thermophiles
2. Acidophiles Gram-positive bacteria
Peptidoglycan cell wall
3. Alkaliphiles
4. Osmophiles
5. Barophiles Lipopolysaccharide cell
Gram-negative bacteria
wall
6. Cryophiles

Another fascinating feature of bacteria is their

protective cell wall, which is made up of a special Classification of bacteria based on the Mode of
protein called peptidoglycan. This particular protein Nutrition
isn’t found anywhere else in nature except in the cell
Type of Classification Examples
walls of bacteria.
But few of them are devoid of this cell wall, and others Cyanobacteria
have a third protection layer called capsule. On the outer Autotrophic Bacteria
layer, one or more flagella or pili is attached, and it
functions as a locomotory organ. Pili can also help Heterotrophic Bacteria All disease-causing bacteria
certain bacteria to attach themselves to the host’s cells.
They do not contain any cell organelle as in animal or
plant cell except for ribosomes. Classification of bacteria based on the Mode of
Respiration
 Type of Classification Examples 1. Convert milk into curd – Lactobacillus or lactic acid
bacteria
2. Ferment food products – Streptococcus and Bacillus
Actinomyces 3. Help in digestion and improving the body’s
Anaerobic Bacteria
immunity system – Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes,
Aerobic Bacteria Mycobacterium Firmicutes, Proteobacteria
4. Production of antibiotics, which is used in the
treatment and prevention of bacterial infections –
Also Read: Difference between Bacteria and Virus
Soil bacteria
Reproduction in Bacteria
Also Refer: Antibiotics

Harmful Bacteria
There are bacteria that can cause a multitude of
illnesses. They are responsible for many of
the infectious diseases like pneumonia, tuberculosis,
diphtheria, syphilis, tooth decay. Their effects can be
rectified by taking antibiotics and prescribed
medication.
However, precaution is much more effective. Most of
these disease-causing bacteria can be eliminated
by sterilizing or disinfecting exposed surfaces,
instruments, tools and other utilities. These methods
include- application of heat, disinfectants, UV
Bacteria follow an asexual mode of radiations, pasteurization, boiling, etc.
reproduction, called binary fission. A single bacterium Also Read:
divides into two daughter cells. These are identical to
the parent cell as well as to each other. Replication of  Cryptobiosis
DNA within parent bacterium marks the beginning of  Microorganisms: Friend And Foe
the fission. Eventually, cell elongates to form two
 Biology
daughter cells.
The rate and timing of reproduction depend upon the Frequently Asked Questions
conditions like temperature and availability of nutrients.
When there is a favourable condition, E.coli or 1. What are the different types of bacteria??
Escherichia coli produces about 2 million bacteria every
7 hours. Bacteria can be divided into several types based on
several characteristics such as shape, cell wall
Bacterial reproduction is strictly asexual, but it can composition, mode of respiration, and mode of
undergo sexual reproduction in very rare cases. nutrition.
Genetic recombination in bacteria has the potential to
occur through conjugation, transformation, or 2. What is bacteria? How do you define bacteria?
transduction. In such cases, the bacteria may become Bacteria are prokaryotic unicellular organisms. They
resistant to antibiotics since there is variation in the have a relatively simple cell structure compared to
genetic material (as opposed to asexual reproduction eukaryotic cells. They also do not possess any
where the same genetic material is present in membrane-bound organelles such as a nucleus.
generations) However, do they possess genetic material (DNA or
Also Read: Binary fission RNA) in the intracellular space called the nucleoid

Useful Bacteria 3. How do bacteria reproduce?

Not all bacteria are harmful to humans. There are some Bacteria reproduce through a process called binary
bacteria which are beneficial in different ways. Listed fission. In this process, a single bacterium divides into
below are few benefits of bacteria: two daughter cells. These daughter cells are identical to
the parent cell as well as to each other.

4. State 4 examples of bacteria.

  Streptococcus  Microorganisms also grow on food and spoil it. That is why
preservatives are added in the food to prevent it from
 Bacillus spoilage.

 Actinobacteria
Diseases Caused By Microorganisms
 Proteobacteria
Some diseases caused by microbes are:

Classification of Microorganism Bacteria Fungi Protozoa Virus

Microbes are categorized into four major groups:
Flu &
 Bacteria Tuberculosis Ringworm Malaria Common
 Fungi cold
 Algae Typhoid Athlete’s foot Dysentery Warts
 Protozoa
Chagas
Viruses, on the other hand, are microscopic but differ from Cholera Candidiasis Polio
disease
microbes. Differ in their reproduction aspects, as they reproduce
only in the cells of their hosts. These host organisms can be of
animals, bacteria or even plants for that matter. A virus is typically Sleeping Herpes and
Plague Tinea versicolor
coated by protein and has a nucleic acid molecule. sickness cold sores

Useful Microorganisms Intestinal

Meningitis Onychomycosis protozoan Chickenpox
Following are a few examples of useful microorganisms: disease
 Extensively used in the baking industry to make cakes,
bread, pastry etc. Tetanus Smallpox

 Used in the production of milk products. Example: Lyme

Lactobacillus bacteria is used in the formation of curd from Ebola
disease
milk
 Since ages, microbes are being used in the production of
alcohol Diseases Caused by Microorganisms in Animals
 It is also used to make organic acids. Acids such as citric
acid, lactic acid, fumaric acid, gluconic acids are made Diseases Microorganism
using microbial activity
Anthrax diseases Bacillus anthracis
 Used in the production of steroids
 Antibiotics are produced using microorganisms Foot and Mouth disease Virus
 Used in the production of vitamins: Vitamins such as
Vitamin B complex, Riboflavin is produced by Ashbya Diseases Caused by Microorganisms in Plants
gossypii, Eremothecium ashbyii and Clostridium bytyricum.
Ascorbic acid, also known as Vitamin C is produced by
species of Acetobacter Diseases Microorganism

 Microorganisms synthesize enzymes such as Lipase, Citrus canker Bacteria

Lactase, Amylase, Pectinase, Penicillinase.
 They increase the fertility of the soil and by fixing nitrogen Rust of wheat Fungi
 Help in the treatment of sewage
Yellow vein mosaic of Okra Virus
 Extensively used to clean up our environment
 Used in pest control Food Spoilage by Microorganisms

Harmful Microorganisms 1. Food spoilage refers to the damage in the quality of food
that makes it unsuitable for human consumption.
 The microorganisms that cause diseases in living beings 2. Bacteria, moulds, and yeast are the main causes of food
are known as pathogens. spoilage.
3. Moulds spoil food with reduced water activity. For eg., dry
 The pathogens can enter our bodies through air, water and
cereals, cereal products.
food.
4. These microbes produce certain enzymes that decompose
 Some pathogens are transmitted directly from an infected the important constituents of food.
person. 5. Bacteria, on the other hand, cause the spoilage of food
with increased water activity. For eg., milk products.
 The diseases which are transmitted by an infected person
directly or indirectly are known as communicable diseases.
For eg., common cold, tuberculosis, etc. Some Interesting Facts About Microbes
 Microbes can be fatal.
  Microbes in our gut cause change of mood. Following is the list of microorganisms and infectious
diseases caused by them:
 Dry hands have fewer bacteria than damp hands.
 The smallest known bacteria is the Mycoplasma. Diseases Microorganisms
 50% of the oxygen we breathe come from microbes.
Cold Rhinovirus
 Your belly button alone has more than 1400 bacteria.
German Measles Rubella
 There are more than a billion microbes in a person’s
mouth.
Chickenpox Varicella zoster
 1.82kgs of your body’s weight constitutes the collective
weight of microbes in your body. Whooping cough Bardotella pertussis
This was just a brief about the microorganisms- its beneficial,
harmful and few facts Stay tuned with BYJU’S Biology to learn more Bubonic plague Yersinia pestis
about microorganisms-friend and foe and other related topics.
Ringworm Trichophyton rubrum
Diseases Caused By Microorganisms Tuberculosis Mycobacterium tuberculosis
There are several diseases caused by microorganisms. Let us have
a look at a few of them. Malaria Plasmodium falciparum

 Viral diseases are caused by viruses. These include both Athlete’s foot Trichophyton mentagrophytes
acute and infectious diseases like the common cold, to
chronic disease like AIDS.  Apart from these acute
diseases, viruses are also responsible for mumps, polio, Who is the father of biology?
rabies etc.
Philosopher Aristotle
 Diseases caused by bacteria include diphtheria, typhoid,
cholera etc.
 Malaria and sleeping sickness are diseases caused by
Who is the mother of biology?
protozoa. Maria Sibylla Merian
 Worms like roundworms, tapeworms could cause diseases
like Ascariasis and Taeniasis respectively. Who first discovered biology?
The microorganisms cause diseases in the following ways:
Thomas Beddoes

 They reach their target site in the body.

 Multiply rapidly.
Who is the Father of Zoology?
 Attach to the target site to be infected. Aristotle
 Avoid and survive an attack by the immune system of the
host. Who is the Father of Virology?
 Obtain nutrients from the host. Martinus Beijerinck

Microbes and Diseases Difference Between Gram-positive and

Gram-negative Bacteria
Viruses Bacteria are a large group of minute, unicellular,
Viruses can be seen only through an electron microscope. They are microscopic organisms, which have been classified as
inactive outside a living cell. Once they are inside the host body, prokaryotic cells, as they lack a true nucleus. These
they take over the entire cellular activities of the organism. They
cannot be destroyed by antibiotics. Common cold, measles, microscopic organisms comprise a simple physical
mumps, smallpox are some of the diseases caused by viruses. structure, including cell wall, capsule, DNA, pili,
flagellum, cytoplasm and ribosomes.
Bacteria
Bacteria can be gram-positive or gram-negative
Not all bacteria cause diseases. The bacteria that infects an depending upon the staining methods. Let us have a
organism produces toxins that can cause diseases. Cholera,
tuberculosis, anthrax are caused by bacteria. These can be killed by detailed look at the difference between the two types of
antibiotics. bacteria.

Fungi Difference between Gram-Positive and Gram-

Fungi can grow in damp, moist areas on the body and lead to Negative Bacteria
infections such as athlete’s foot, ringworm, etc.
Following are the important differences between gram-
Protozoa positive and gram-negative bacteria:
Protozoans such as amoeba cause diseases such as amoebic
dysentery. Malaria and sleeping sickness is also caused by
protozoans.
 Mesosome

It is more prominent. It is less prominent.

Morphology

Cocci or spore-forming rods Non-spore forming rods.

Flagella Structure

Two rings in basal body Four rings in basal body

Lipid content

Very low 20 to 30%

Difference between Gram-Positive and Gram-Negative Bacteria

Lipopolysaccharide
  Gram-Positive bacteria Gram-Negative bacteria

Absent Present
Cell Wall

Toxin Produced
A single-layered, smooth cell  A double-layered, wavy cell-
wall wall
Exotoxins Endotoxins or Exotoxins

Cell Wall thickness

Resistance to Antibiotic

The thickness of the cell wall is The thickness of the cell wall is
20 to 80 nanometres 8 to 10 nanometres More susceptible More resistant

Peptidoglycan Layer Examples

It is a thick layer/ also can be It is a thin layer/ often single- Staphylococcus, Streptococcus,
Escherichia, Salmonella, etc.
multilayered layered. etc.

Teichoic acids Gram Staining 

Presence of teichoic acids Absence of teichoic acids These bacteria do not retain
These bacteria retain the crystal
the stain colour even after
violet colour even after they are
they are washed with acetone
Outer membrane washed with acetone or alcohol
or alcohol and appear as pink-
and appear as purple-coloured
coloured when examined
when examined under the
under the microscope after
The outer membrane is microscope after gram staining.
The outer membrane is absent gram staining.
present (mostly)

Porins Gram-Positive and Gram-Negative Bacteria –

Overview
Absent Occurs in Outer Membrane
The gram-positive bacteria retain the crystal violet
colour and stains purple whereas the gram-negative
bacteria lose crystal violet and stain red. Thus, the two  The cell wall of gram-negative bacteria is composed
types of bacteria are distinguished by gram staining. of thin layers of peptidoglycan.
Gram-negative bacteria are more resistant against  In the gram staining procedure, gram-positive cells
antibodies because their cell wall is impenetrable. retain the purple coloured stain.

Gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria are classified  In the gram staining procedure, gram-negative cells
based on their ability to hold the gram stain. The gram- do not retain the purple coloured stain.
negative bacteria are stained by a counterstain such as  Gram-positive bacteria produce exotoxins.
safranin, and they are de-stained because of the alcohol  Gram-negative bacteria produce endotoxins.
wash. Hence under a microscope, they are noticeably
For more information on the differences between gram-
pink in colour. Gram-positive bacteria, on the other
positive and gram-negative bacteria, keep visiting
hand, retains the gram stain and show a visible violet
BYJU’S website or download the BYJU’S app for
colour upon the application of mordant (iodine) and
further reference.
ethanol (alcohol).
Further Reading:
Gram-positive bacteria constitute a cell wall, which is
mainly composed of multiple layers of peptidoglycan
 Microorganisms – Useful Or Harmful
that forms a rigid and thick structure. Its cell wall
additionally has teichoic acids and phosphate.  The  Gram-Positive Bacteria
teichoic acids present in the gram-positive bacteria are
of two types – the lipoteichoic acid and the teichoic wall Frequently Asked Questions
acid. The cell wall is known as murein.
Give a few examples of gram-positive bacteria.
In gram-negative bacteria, the cell wall is made up of an
outer membrane and several layers of peptidoglycan. Gram-positive bacteria include the bacteria of genre
The outer membrane is composed of lipoproteins, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Enterococcus. These
phospholipids, and LPS. The peptidoglycan stays intact bacteria are the most common cause of clinical
to lipoproteins of the outer membrane that is located in infections.
the fluid-like periplasm between the plasma membrane
and the outer membrane. The periplasm is contained Which is more harmful- gram-positive bacteria or
with proteins and degrading enzymes which assist in gram-negative bacteria?
transporting molecules. Gram-negative bacteria are more harmful and cause
The cell walls of the gram-negative bacteria, unlike the certain diseases. Their outer membranes are hidden by a
gram-positive, lacks the teichoic acid. Due to the slime layer that hides the antigens present in the cell.
presence of porins, the outer membrane is permeable to
nutrition, water, food, iron, etc. Is it easier to kill gram-positive bacteria?
The cell wall of the gram-positive bacteria absorbs
Gram Staining antibiotics and cleaning products. Because of the outer
This technique was proposed by Christian Gram to peptidoglycan layer, they are easier to kill. Gram-
distinguish the two types of bacteria based on the negative bacteria cannot be killed easily.
difference in their cell wall structures. The gram-
positive bacteria retain the crystal violet dye, which is What infections are caused by gram-positive bacteria?
because of their thick layer of peptidoglycan in the cell Gram-positive bacteria usually cause Urinary Tract
wall. Infections. These are caused commonly in people who
This process distinguishes bacteria by identifying are more prone to urinary tract infections or are elderly
peptidoglycan that is found in the cell wall of the gram- or pregnant.
positive bacteria. A very small layer of peptidoglycan is
dissolved in gram-negative bacteria when alcohol is Which infections are caused by gram-negative
added. bacteria?
The gram-negative bacteria cause various infections in
Difference between Gram-Positive and Gram- humans such as indigestion, food poisoning, 
Negative Bacteria – Key Points pneumonia, meningitis and other bacterial infections in
the blood cells,  bloodstream, wound infections, etc. The
 The cell wall of gram-positive bacteria is composed infections are caused by Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas
of thick layers peptidoglycan. aeruginosa and E.coli.