The motile bacteria are able to move by: [2014]a)Fimbriaeb)Flagellac)Ciliad)PiliCorrect answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Question

The motile bacteria are able to move by:         [2014]a)Fimbriaeb)Flagellac)Ciliad)PiliCorrect answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Answer

Answer

Flagella help in locomotion cilia does not help

Answer

B is correct

Answer

Motile bacteria have thin filamentous extensions from their cell wall called flagella

Answer

Introduction:
Motile bacteria are bacteria that are capable of movement. They possess certain structures that enable them to move in their environment. One of the most common mechanisms of bacterial motility is through the use of flagella.

Flagella:
Flagella are whip-like structures that extend from the surface of a bacterium. They are composed of a protein called flagellin and are responsible for bacterial movement. Flagella can be found in different arrangements on the bacterial surface, such as polar flagella, peritrichous flagella, or tufted flagella.

Mechanism of Flagellar Movement:
The movement of flagella allows bacteria to move towards or away from certain stimuli, such as light, chemicals, or temperature gradients. This movement is achieved through the coordinated rotation of the flagella. The rotation can be either clockwise (CW) or counterclockwise (CCW).

CCW Rotation:
During CCW rotation, the flagella form a bundle and move in a coordinated manner. This results in a smooth linear movement known as 'run.' The CCW rotation allows bacteria to move towards a favorable environment, such as a nutrient source or away from harmful substances.

CW Rotation:
In contrast, during CW rotation, the flagella do not form a bundle and move independently. This leads to a tumbling or random reorientation of the bacterium. The CW rotation allows bacteria to change their direction when encountering an unfavorable environment.

Chemotaxis:
Motile bacteria can exhibit a behavior called chemotaxis, which is the movement towards or away from specific chemical signals. This movement is regulated by the rotation of the flagella. When a bacterium detects a chemical gradient, it alters the duration of the CCW and CW rotations, allowing it to move towards or away from the chemical stimulus.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, motile bacteria are able to move through the use of flagella. The coordinated rotation of the flagella enables bacteria to move in a directed manner towards favorable conditions or away from harmful substances. This mechanism of movement is essential for bacterial survival and allows them to explore and respond to their environment.

Top Courses for NEETView all

Biology Class 11

Daily Test for NEET Preparation

NEET Mock Test Series 2025

Topic-wise MCQ Tests for NEET

Physics Class 11

Top Courses for NEET

Top Courses for NEET

Suggested Free Tests

Related Content

About NEET

NEET Preparation Material

How to Prepare for NEET Exam?

NCERT Based Study Material

NEET Mock Tests

Other Popular Exams

Company