Module 1 Homework
Module 01 Homework Assignment
• Use the information presented in the module folder along with your readings from the textbook to answer the following questions.
• Please try to write at least 2-3 COMPLETE sentences for your responses
1. Define and briefly describe the different classes of microorganisms (including the terms Eukaryotes and Prokaryotes):
1. Eukaryotes: Eukaryotes are living organisms whose cells are larger and more complex than prokaryotic cells and contain complex structures enclosed within membranes. Scientists believe that eukaryotes have evolved from prokaryotic symbiotic communities. If we use the rules of nomenclature and look at the binomial “eukaryote”, eu means good or with and karyon means nucleus; therefore, a simplified definition of eukaryotes is “with a nucleus”.
a. Algae - Algae are a large and diverse group of simple organisms that can be unicellular or multicellular. These eukaryotic organisms have no roots, stems, or leaves but do have chlorophyll and other pigments for carrying out photosynthesis. Algae are found in aquatic bodies, both salt and freshwater, and in all types of soil. Scientists have yet to find significance for algae in the medical world.
b. Fungi - Fungi (singular is fungus) are a very large and diverse group of eukaryotic, spore bearing organisms that include several thousand species. Yeasts, molds and mushrooms are all fungi, but are not microbes. Fungi obtain their energy by absorption of simple organic compounds found in soil and water. Although fungi play an important, major role in the breakdown of dead organic matter in the environments where they grow as well as being a food source, it is vital to remember that some fungi are pathogenic and can cause disease in animals and humans.
c. Protozoans – Protozoans are single celled, free-living microorganisms that feed on other organisms for their energy source. Protozoans come in many different shapes and sizes, living in a wide
• Use the information presented in the module folder along with your readings from the textbook to answer the following questions.
• Please try to write at least 2-3 COMPLETE sentences for your responses
1. Define and briefly describe the different classes of microorganisms (including the terms Eukaryotes and Prokaryotes):
1. Eukaryotes: Eukaryotes are living organisms whose cells are larger and more complex than prokaryotic cells and contain complex structures enclosed within membranes. Scientists believe that eukaryotes have evolved from prokaryotic symbiotic communities. If we use the rules of nomenclature and look at the binomial “eukaryote”, eu means good or with and karyon means nucleus; therefore, a simplified definition of eukaryotes is “with a nucleus”.
a. Algae - Algae are a large and diverse group of simple organisms that can be unicellular or multicellular. These eukaryotic organisms have no roots, stems, or leaves but do have chlorophyll and other pigments for carrying out photosynthesis. Algae are found in aquatic bodies, both salt and freshwater, and in all types of soil. Scientists have yet to find significance for algae in the medical world.
b. Fungi - Fungi (singular is fungus) are a very large and diverse group of eukaryotic, spore bearing organisms that include several thousand species. Yeasts, molds and mushrooms are all fungi, but are not microbes. Fungi obtain their energy by absorption of simple organic compounds found in soil and water. Although fungi play an important, major role in the breakdown of dead organic matter in the environments where they grow as well as being a food source, it is vital to remember that some fungi are pathogenic and can cause disease in animals and humans.
c. Protozoans – Protozoans are single celled, free-living microorganisms that feed on other organisms for their energy source. Protozoans come in many different shapes and sizes, living in a wide