transduction Transfer of DNA between two bacteria with the aid of a bacteriaphage.
transformation Changing phenotypes due to the incorporation (”taking up”) of foreign
DNA from the environment.
spirilli Spiral-shaped bacteria or archaea.
Points to Consider
- In the next section we will discuss the Archae. “Archae” shares the same root word as
“archives” and “archaic,” so what do you think it means? - What do you think the earliest life forms on Earth looked like?
- How do you think these early life forms obtained energy?
8.2 Lesson 8.2: Archaea
Lesson Objectives
- Identify the differences between archaea and bacteria.
- Explain how the archaea can obtain energy.
- Explain how the archaea reproduce.
- Discuss the unique habitats of the archaea.
Check Your Understanding
- What are the three shapes of bacteria?
Answer: The bacilli are rod-shaped, the cocci are sphere-shaped, and the spirilli are spiral-
shaped.- How do bacteria reproduce?
Answer: Through binary fission, producing genetically identical organisms.- How can bacteria be harmful?
Answer: Bacteria can cause diseases such as strep throat. They can also be involved with
food poisoning and biological warfare.