Certain bacteria in soil convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form plants can use to grow.
Scientists use a Gram stain to classify them. Gram-positive bacteria have a thick peptidoglycan layer that retains purple dye, while Gram-negative bacteria have a thinner layer and an outer membrane, appearing pink.
Common forms include cocci (spherical), bacilli (rod-shaped), and spirilla (spiral). bacterium
The human body is home to trillions of bacteria, known as the . These "good" bacteria aid in digestion and protect against harmful pathogens. However, pathogenic bacteria cause diseases such as strep throat, tuberculosis, and urinary tract infections. These are typically treated with antibiotics , though the overuse of these drugs has led to the rise of "superbugs"—bacteria that are resistant to standard medical treatments.
Bacteria reproduce asexually through , a process where a single cell duplicates its DNA and splits into two identical daughter cells. Under optimal conditions, some species can double their population every 20 minutes. They can also exchange DNA through conjugation , which allows for the rapid spread of traits like antibiotic resistance. 3. Ecological and Industrial Importance Certain bacteria in soil convert atmospheric nitrogen into
Bacteria play a critical role in maintaining the planet's balance:
Many use flagella for movement or pili to adhere to surfaces or exchange genetic material. 2. Reproduction and Growth However, pathogenic bacteria cause diseases such as strep
They break down organic matter, recycling carbon and nutrients back into the ecosystem.