what is microbiology and Which microorganism perform photosynthesis by utilizing light?
Explain in detail
The correct answer and explanation is :
Microbiology and Photosynthetic Microorganisms
Microbiology is the branch of biology that studies microscopic organisms, including bacteria, archaea, fungi, algae, protozoa, and viruses. These microorganisms play crucial roles in various ecosystems, human health, and industries such as medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology.
Microorganisms that Perform Photosynthesis
Several microorganisms can carry out photosynthesis using light energy to convert carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water into glucose and oxygen. These include:
- Cyanobacteria (Blue-Green Algae)
- These prokaryotic bacteria are among the oldest photosynthetic organisms on Earth.
- They contain chlorophyll a and perform oxygenic photosynthesis (producing oxygen).
- Examples: Anabaena, Nostoc, Spirulina.
- Algae
- Eukaryotic, unicellular or multicellular organisms.
- They contain chlorophyll and perform photosynthesis like plants.
- Examples: Chlorella, Euglena, Volvox.
- Purple and Green Sulfur Bacteria
- These bacteria perform anoxygenic photosynthesis, meaning they do not produce oxygen.
- They use hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) instead of water as an electron donor.
- Examples: Chromatium (Purple sulfur bacteria), Chlorobium (Green sulfur bacteria).
- Diatoms
- Microscopic algae found in oceans and freshwater.
- They have silica-based cell walls and perform oxygenic photosynthesis.
- Examples: Thalassiosira, Phaeodactylum.
Conclusion
Photosynthetic microorganisms are essential for oxygen production, carbon cycling, and maintaining ecological balance. Cyanobacteria played a crucial role in forming Earth’s oxygen-rich atmosphere. Understanding these microorganisms helps in biofuel production, environmental conservation, and space research.