Bacteria

Characteristics

Bacteria are tiny one celled organisms that live on, in and around human beings as well as many other living and non-living things. Most of these organisms are very small and millions of them would fit on the head of a pin. Most bacteria range in size from 1- 5 microns. Bacteria absorb their food and secrete their wastse through the cell wall. Many kinds can live with or without air. bacteria are found all over the world, one pound of fertile garden soil may contain 50 million. Some bacteria can move very rapidly though water with the use of flagella. others are carried by animals, wind, or dust.

Bacterial reproduction

Most bacteria reproduce by dividing in the middle to form two cells. Once these cells reach maturity they, in turn, divide to form four. Some bacteria divide every 15 minuites, while some may take as long as 16 hours.

Examples

Methanococcus

E-coli