Bacteria are tiny living things that can survive and change in many different situations. Their special cell structure helps them do this. Here’s how:
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Peptidoglycan Cell Wall:
- This is like a strong shield that keeps bacteria safe and gives them shape.
- There are two main types: Gram-positive and Gram-negative.
- Gram-positive bacteria have thick walls, about 90% of them do, which makes them tougher against some antibiotics. In contrast, Gram-negative bacteria have thinner walls plus an extra layer, making them different in how they react to medicine.
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Plasmids:
- These are tiny, round pieces of DNA.
- Bacteria can share plasmids with each other, which helps them adapt better when faced with antibiotics.
- More than half of all bacteria can exchange these plasmids!
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Endospores:
- Some bacteria, like Bacillus and Clostridium, can create endospores.
- These endospores are like tiny survival packs that help the bacteria live in hard conditions.
- They can handle extreme heat, even temperatures up to 121°C (which is really hot!), and they can survive harmful UV rays.
These features all help bacteria be strong and adaptable in many different places.