To review:
The deep-branching phyla that include hyperthermophiles and the reason for controversy behind the actual branch position.
Introduction:
A group of organisms that diverged early from other bacteria based on the sequence of small-subunit rRNA (ribosomal ribonucleic acid) and shares a common ancestry is referred to as a phylum. Deep-branching taxa are the lineages with genome sequences that diverged early, at or before the well-known phyla. Based on the historical convention and consensus of the research community, phyla and other major divisions are defined.
Explanation of Solution
The hyperthermophilic bacteria are included in the phylum Aqulficae of deep-branching thermophiles. Aquifexaeolicus can grow at 95°C at marine thermal vents. Their molecular clocks are highly accelerated probably because of their rapid growth and high mutation rates. Most of the members of this group oxidize hydrogen gas with oxygen to form water.
Phylum Aqulficae and Thermotogae oxidize hydrogen from oxygen to form water. Aqulficae shows surprising archaeal traits and also shares its habitat with Archaea. Some Aqulficae species have archaeal ether-linked membrane lipids. They also show a large proportion of archaeal deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) sequences. It is also observed that Aqulficae also shares sequence similarities with Clostridium and Epsilonproteobacteria. Thus, it is challenging for researchers to trace the actual branch position.
Want to see more full solutions like this?
Chapter 18 Solutions
Microbiology: An Evolving Science (Fourth Edition)
- What is a general term that is used to describe the strategy of using photosynthesis and -heterotrophy for nutrition ? What is a well-known class of protists that uses this strategy?arrow_forwardList three ways to distinguish Cyanobacteria from phytoplankton (algae). How can you differentiate phytoplankton to zooplankton?arrow_forwardHow does the process of photosynthesis in archaea different from the protein synthesis of bacteria?arrow_forward
- From the standpoint of energy metabolism, how do chemoorganotrophs differ from chemolitotrophs? What carbon sources do members of each group use? Are they heterotrophs or autotrophs?arrow_forwardDespite many interesting characteristics and features observed in Archaea, why is there not much study about these organisms?arrow_forwardHow do prokaryotes and eukaryotes differ when viewed under microscope? What are the diffrenebces of movements of protozones under microscope?arrow_forward
- Why do anaerobic hyperthermophiles sit on the lowest branches of the archaeal tree?arrow_forwardis gloeotrichia cyanobacteria branched or unbranched?arrow_forwardWhat is the source of carbon for fungi? What is the source of carbon for protozoa? What is the source of carbon for bacteria? What is the source of carbon for viruses? What is the source of carbon for helminths? What is the source of carbon for algea?arrow_forward
- Biology (MindTap Course List)BiologyISBN:9781337392938Author:Eldra Solomon, Charles Martin, Diana W. Martin, Linda R. BergPublisher:Cengage Learning