Chapter 4, Problem 10CTQ

a.

Summary Introduction

To make:

A hypothesis regarding the domain of life to which this microbe most likely belongs.

Introduction:

The three major domains of life forms evolved from a last universal common ancestor are “Bacteria”, “Archaea”, and “Eukarya”. There are certain similarities between all three domains, while there are certain contrasting features that separate them.

The domain Archaea contain single and circular chromosomes. Nucleus and membrane-bound organelles are absent. Peptidoglycans and cell wall are absent in archaea.

b.

Summary Introduction

To explain:

The edition of Bergey’s Manual that should be used in this case to determine the identity of the microbe.

Introduction:

A microbe found in boiling hot waters of a deep ocean hydrothermal vent is archaea. Archaea include the group of ancient bacteria. Archaea that live in extreme environments are termed as extremophiles. The domain archaea cannot be readily stained or cultured in the laboratory. However, its rRNA can be sequenced and analyzed.

c.

Summary Introduction

To explain:

Whether the rRNA sequence information is enough to define the species of a microbe.

Introduction:

A microbe found in boiling hot waters of a deep ocean hydrothermal vent is archaea. Archaea include the group of ancient bacteria. Archaea that live in extreme environments are termed as extremophiles. The domain archaea cannot be readily stained or cultured in the laboratory. However, its rRNA can be sequenced and analyzed.