Build the Baddest Bug!
Determine which structures are necessary to all bacteria for survival.
Determine which structures provide virulence factors (allow it to cause disease).
Choose up to three virulence factors and build the baddest bug.
Give it a Genus and species name (be creative!)
Describe how it might cause disease in a human
Post a picture of your baddest bug and its description to the discussion board.
Sample Answer
The Baddest Bug: Introducing Maledicus Mortiferus
Essential Structures for Survival:
All bacteria require certain structures for basic functioning and survival:
- Cell wall: Provides rigidity and protection against external pressure and harmful substances.
- Cytoplasmic membrane: Regulates the passage of materials into and out of the cell.
- Ribosomes: Translate genetic information into proteins, essential for all cellular processes.
- DNA: Carries the genetic information of the bacterium.
- Plasmids (optional): Extra-chromosomal DNA molecules that can encode additional traits, including virulence factors.