baktéri

Bakteri are single-celled microorganisms that are found in nearly every environment on Earth. They are prokaryotes, meaning their cells lack a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. Bacteria vary greatly in size and shape, ranging from spheres to rods to spirals. Their genetic material, DNA, is typically located in a region called the nucleoid.

Many bacteria are essential for life, playing crucial roles in ecosystems. For instance, they are vital for nutrient cycling, breaking down organic matter and making nutrients available for plants. Some bacteria live symbiotically with other organisms, such as in the digestive systems of animals, aiding in the digestion of food and the production of vitamins.

However, some bacteria are pathogenic, meaning they can cause disease in humans, animals, and plants. These bacteria can infect tissues, produce toxins, and disrupt normal bodily functions. Diseases caused by bacteria include pneumonia, tuberculosis, and food poisoning.

Bacterial reproduction is primarily asexual, through a process called binary fission, where one cell divides into two identical daughter cells. This rapid reproduction rate allows bacterial populations to grow quickly. Despite their small size, bacteria have a significant impact on the planet and its inhabitants, both beneficial and detrimental.