Chapter Overview

Procaryotic cells are the smallest, simplest, and most abundant cells on earth.
Representative procaryotes include bacteria and archaea, both of which lack a nucleus and organelles but are functionally complex.
The structure of bacterial cells is compact and capable of adaptations to a myriad of habitats.
The cell is encased in an envelope that protects, supports, and regulates transport.
Bacteria have special structures for motility and adhesion to the environment.
Bacterial cells contain genetic material in a single chromosome, and ribosomes for synthesizing proteins.
Bacteria have the capacity for reproduction, nutrient storage, dormancy, and resistance to adverse conditions.
Shape, size, and arrangement of bacterial cells are extremely varied.
Bacterial taxonomy and classification is based on their structure, metabolism, and genetics.
Archaea are procaryotes related to eucaryotic cells that possess unique biochemistry and genetics.
Archaea are adapted to the most extreme habitats on earth.

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