2.2: Prokaryotes and Viruses
- Page ID
- 31900
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Most organisms on Earth, and in fact most of the cells in your body, are prokaryotic. These unicellular organisms are ubiquitous across ecosystems and organisms, involved in every aspect of ecology. Prokaryotes can be divided into two major groups: Bacteria and Archaea. Unlike prokaryotes, viruses are acellular, and so are not considered living. However, they are distinct biological entities with important roles in evolutionary history and the life histories of organisms.
- 2.2.1: Prokaryotes
- This chapter will examine the diversity, structure, and function of prokaryotes. Prokaryotes have an important role in changing, shaping, and sustaining the entire biosphere. They can produce proteins and other substances used by molecular biologists in basic research and in medicine and industry
- 2.2.2: Viruses
- Viruses are generally ultramicroscopic, typically from 20 nm to 900 nm in length, though some larger viruses have been found. Viruses are acellular and consist of a nucleic acid, DNA or RNA, but not both, surrounded by a protein capsid. There may also be a phospholipid membrane surrounding the capsid. Viruses are obligate intracellular parasites.
- 2.2.3: Chapter Summary
- A summary of the chapter concepts.
Attributions
Chapter thumbnail artwork by Nikki Harris CC BY-NC