Exploring Microorganisms and Relationships

What are the main differences between viruses and bacteria?

• Viruses are larger than bacteria and can survive without a host.

• Viruses can reproduce independently like bacteria.

• Bacteria are non-cellular and require a host to replicate.

• Viruses are non-cellular and require a host to replicate; bacteria are single-celled and can reproduce independently.

How do fungi contribute to ecosystem health?

• Fungi primarily produce oxygen through photosynthesis.

• Fungi are known for their ability to create large animal populations.

• Fungi mainly serve as a food source for herbivores in ecosystems.

• Fungi contribute to ecosystem health by decomposing organic matter, recycling nutrients, forming symbiotic relationships with plants, and regulating microbial populations.

In what ways can protists act as disease agents in humans?

• Protists can cause diseases in humans through parasitism and toxin production.

• Protists are only found in aquatic environments and do not affect humans.

• Protists can enhance human immunity against diseases.

• Protists primarily act as beneficial gut bacteria.

Can you explain the concept of symbiotic relationships in nature?

• Symbiotic relationships only occur between plants.

• Symbiotic relationships are limited to animal interactions.

• All symbiotic relationships are harmful to one species.

• Symbiotic relationships are interactions between different species that can be mutualistic, commensal, or parasitic.

What mechanisms do bacteria use to develop resistance to antibiotics?

• Bacteria develop resistance through increased nutrient absorption.

• Bacteria rely on viral infections to enhance their survival against antibiotics.

• Bacteria use genetic mutations, horizontal gene transfer, and enzyme production to develop resistance to antibiotics.

• Bacteria use photosynthesis to combat antibiotics.

What role do mycorrhizal fungi play in plant health?

• Mycorrhizal fungi primarily compete with plants for nutrients.

• Mycorrhizal fungi are harmful to plant roots and inhibit growth.

• Mycorrhizal fungi enhance plant health by improving nutrient uptake and water absorption.

• Mycorrhizal fungi only affect soil bacteria and have no impact on plants.

How do viruses replicate within a host cell?

• Viruses can replicate independently without a host.

• Viruses reproduce through photosynthesis.

• Viruses inject their genetic material into host cells, hijacking the host's machinery to produce new virus particles.

• Viruses replicate by dividing like bacteria.

What are the ecological roles of protists in aquatic environments?

• Protists only exist as parasites in water bodies.

• Protists primarily compete with fish for resources in aquatic ecosystems.

• Protists serve as primary producers, decomposers, and can be pathogens in aquatic environments.

• Protists are only harmful and do not contribute to aquatic ecosystems.