BIOS 242 OL Week 6 Lobster an Introduction to the Bacterial Cell

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the structure and function of bacterial cells
• Differentiate between different shapes and arrangements of bacteria
• Compare the cytoplasmic content of bacterial cells with eukaryotic cells
• Identify unique features of bacteria essential for their survival

Introduction:

This virtual simulation lab will explore the fascinating world of bacterial cell structures and their significance for bacterial survival. Our focus will be on bacteria found in Antarctica, where global warming has caused ice to melt, revealing resilient bacterial species.

Bacteria Identification in Antarctic Sample:

We will begin by collecting a sample of melted ice from Antarctica, which contains diverse bacteria. Your task is to examine the sample, identify the bacteria present, and determine the crucial cell structures contributing to their survival.

Study and Assemble Bacterial Cell Structures:

To better understand bacterial cells, we will analyze their motility features, shapes, and internal structures. Additionally, we will compare these structures to those of eukaryotic cells. Through this exploration, we will assemble the cytoplasmic content of both bacterial and eukaryotic cells.

BIOS 242 OL Week 6 Lobster An Introduction to the Bacterial Cell

Application of Knowledge:

In the final part of the lab, we will draw upon our knowledge of bacterial cell structures to assess their importance in extreme environments. By doing so, we can assist Arctic researchers in identifying the critical survival features worth investigating.

Questions

Bright-field microscopy is the most commonly used method where regions with heavier atoms appear darker. In contrast, dark-field microscopy illuminates the areas with heavier particles, making them appear brighter.

Bacteria can have three significant shapes: cocci (spherical), bacilli (rod-shaped), and spirilla (spiral-shaped). They can also arrange themselves in various arrangements, such as clusters, chains, or pairs.

BIOS 242 OL Week 6 Lobster An Introduction to the Bacterial Cell

Give five differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells.

• Prokaryotic cells are unicellular, while eukaryotic cells can be unicellular or multicellular.
• Prokaryotic cells have smaller ribosomes compared to eukaryotic cells.
• Prokaryotic cells lack a Golgi apparatus, which is present in eukaryotic cells.
• Transcription occurs in the cytoplasm of prokaryotic cells, whereas in eukaryotic cells, it occurs in the nucleus.

To provides structural support and protection to the cell.

Reflection:

I enjoyed this lobster because it allowed me to explore the fascinating world of Antarctica and the discoveries that come with melting ice. The implications of global warming are concerning, but it’s exciting to uncover new organisms and life forms in this unique environment. I found the comparison between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells informative, and assembling the components within the cells was a helpful review. One aspect I would have preferred in the simulation is more interaction with the outdoor environment during sample collection in Antarctica. Nonetheless, the experience of being a virtual scientist was engaging.