bakterían

Bakterían are single-celled microorganisms that are found in nearly every habitat on Earth. They are incredibly diverse, with a wide range of shapes, sizes, and metabolic capabilities. Bacteria lack a membrane-bound nucleus and other organelles, making them prokaryotic cells. Their genetic material is typically a single circular chromosome located in a region called the nucleoid.

Many bacteria play vital roles in ecosystems. They are essential decomposers, breaking down dead organic matter and recycling nutrients. Some bacteria form symbiotic relationships with other organisms. For example, certain bacteria live in the digestive tracts of animals, aiding in digestion and producing essential vitamins. In plants, bacteria can fix atmospheric nitrogen, making it available for plant growth.

However, some bacteria are pathogenic, meaning they can cause disease in humans, animals, and plants. These bacteria can produce toxins or directly damage host tissues. Diseases caused by bacteria include strep throat, tuberculosis, and food poisoning. The study of bacteria is called bacteriology, a subfield of microbiology. Understanding bacteria is crucial for medicine, agriculture, and environmental science due to their widespread impact on life.