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10.6: Photosynthesis in Prokaryotes

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    69981
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    The two parts of photosynthesis—the light-dependent reactions and the Calvin cycle—have been described, as they take place in chloroplasts. However, prokaryotes, such as cyanobacteria, lack membrane-bound organelles (including chloroplasts). Prokaryotic photosynthetic organisms have infoldings of the plasma membrane for chlorophyll attachment and photosynthesis (Figure \(\PageIndex{1}\)). It is here that organisms like cyanobacteria can carry out photosynthesis.

    twisty green shape labeled thylakoid
    Figure \(\PageIndex{1}\): A photosynthetic prokaryote has infolded regions of the plasma membrane that function like thylakoids. Although these are not contained in an organelle, such as a chloroplast, all of the necessary components are present to carry out photosynthesis. (credit: scale-bar data from Matt Russell)

    Query \(\PageIndex{1}\)

    References

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    Text adapted from: OpenStax, Concepts of Biology. OpenStax CNX. May 18, 2016 http://cnx.org/contents/b3c1e1d2-839...9a8aafbdd@9.10


    10.6: Photosynthesis in Prokaryotes is shared under a CC BY license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by LibreTexts.

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