Introduction to Bacteria - Characteristics and Types

Bacteria are single-celled microorganisms that can be found in various environments and play both beneficial and harmful roles in ecosystems.
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Microbiology | Infectious Diseases | Environmental Science | Microorganisms | Prokaryotes
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Bacteria FAQ


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What are the characteristics of bacteria?

bacteria, Group of microscopic, single-celled organisms that inhabit virtually all environments, including soil, water, organic matter, and the bodies of multicellular animals. Bacteria are distinguished in part by their morphological and genetic features; for instance, they may have spherical, rodlike, or spiral shapes.

Where do bacteria live?

They constitute a large domain of prokaryotic microorganisms. Typically a few micrometres in length, bacteria were among the first life forms to appear on Earth, and are present in most of its habitats. Bacteria inhabit soil, water, acidic hot springs, radioactive waste, and the deep biosphere of Earth's crust.

What is a bacterial infection?

Bacterial infections can also be " secondary infections ," meaning they develop while your body is fighting another infection. For example, bacterial pneumonia could develop while your body fights a viral infection like COVID-19. Symptoms of bacterial infection depend on the location and type of infection and bacteria.

Bacteria References

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