In this article we will discuss about the cell structure of bacteria with the help of diagrams. A bacterial cell (Fig. 2.5) shows a typical prokaryotic structure. The cytoplasm is enclosed by three layers, the outermost slime or capsule, the middle cell wall and inner cell membrane. The major cytoplasmic contents are nucleoid, plasmid, ribosome, mesosome etc., and the cell [...]
The following points highlight the five methods by which reproduction in bacteria takes place. The methods are: 1. Binary Fission 2. Conidia 3. Budding 4. Cysts 5. Endospore. Method # 1. Binary Fission: In binary fission, single cell divides into two equal cells (Fig. 2.19). Initially the bacterial cell reaches a critical mass in its structure and cellular constituents. [...]
The following points highlight the three main processes involved in the genetic recombination of bacteria. The processes are: 1. Conjugation 2. Transformation 3. Transduction. Process # 1. Conjugation: In this process, the exchange of genetic material takes place through a conjugation tube between the two cells of bacteria. The process was first postulated by Joshua Lederberg and Edward Tatum (1946) [...]