STRUCTURE OF BACTERIA

Based on the composition of their cells, all living organisms under the kingdom Protista are
broadly classified into eukaryotes. In prokaryotes the cells having simple genetic structures,
enzymes and divided by binary fission and not through mitosis. No nucleus or membrane
bound organelles are present. Bacteria are included among prokaryotes. Eukaryotes like
protozoa or fungi, cellular organisation is complex, and divide by mitosis.

Bacteria consists of a single cell with a simple internal structure. It has single loop of DNA
and in a twisted thread-like mass called the nucleoid .Some bacteria have an extra circle of
genetic material called plasmid that makes the bacterium resistant to a certain antibiotic.
Typically a bacteria have few micrometres in length and can be only observed by
microscope.

Bacterial cells are generally surrounded by two protective coverings: an outer cell wall and
an inner cell membrane. Some bacteria may even have a third, outermost, protective layer
called the capsule.

The cell wall contains peptidoglycan and other components that contribute to their
pathogenicity. The cell wall protects a cell from toxic substances and is the site of action of
several antibiotics.

The plasma membrane encloses the cytoplasm. Bacterial capsule is a well-organized layer
that is not easily washed off. Slime is an unorganized material that is removed easily present
in few bacteria over the capsule. Capsules and slimelayers are usually composed of
polysaccharides. Capsules give protection to bacteria and is antigenic, having much
diagnostic importance.

Bacterial surfaces may have extensions called flagella and pili. Flagella are the organ for
locomotion and the function of pili or fimbria is adhesion or attachment. Most motile
bacteria move by flagella. The detailed structure of a flagellum can only be seen in the
electron microscope.
Bacterial species often differ in their flagella distribution. Many gram-negative bacteria have
short, fine, hair like appendages thinner than flagella called fimbriae which are not involved
in motility.

Bacteria lack membrane-bound organelles.

However, like eukaryotic cells bacteria also contain ribosomes. They are spherical and are
the centres of proteins synthesis Many gram-positive bacteria can form a special resistant,
dormant structure called endospore. Endospores develop within vegetative bacterial cells of
several genera like Bacillus and Clostridium .These are resistant to heat, ultraviolet
radiation, gamma radiation, chemical disinfectants, and desiccation. Because of their
resistance, several species of endospore-forming bacteria are dangerous pathogens like
Clostridium tetani, Clostridium botulinum etc.

A variety of inclusion bodies, granules of organic or inorganic material is present in the

cytoplasmic matrix. These bodies are used for storage. Many bacteria store phosphate as
polyphosphate granules or volutin granule.