The word "bacteroid" is quite tricky to spell, particularly for those who are not familiar with its pronunciation. The correct way to pronounce bacteroid is /bæk'tɛrɔɪd/, wherein the first syllable rhymes with the word "back," followed by a stressed "teer" sound and ending with "oid" that sounds like "oyd." This word is a scientific adjective used to describe certain bacteria that have elongated or peculiar shapes. Despite its complexity, mastering the spelling of such technical terms is a valuable skill for professionals in the scientific field.
A bacteroid is a specialized form of bacteria that exists within the root nodules of certain leguminous plants, such as soybeans, clovers, and peas. These symbiotic bacteria have a mutualistic relationship with the plants, as they are able to fix atmospheric nitrogen and provide it to the plants, while receiving nutrients in return.
Bacteroids are characterized by their unique morphology and unique abilities. They are generally larger in size compared to free-living bacteria, and their shape can vary depending on the species. They often have an irregular or elongated form, with multiple nuclei and a dense cytoplasm. This specific structure allows them to carry out complex functions facilitated by the interaction with their host plant.
Inside the root nodules, bacteroids convert nitrogen gas from the atmosphere into ammonium, a form that can be taken up and utilized by the plant. This process is known as nitrogen fixation and is crucial for plant growth and development. Bacteroids achieve this by producing an enzyme called nitrogenase, which enables the conversion of nitrogen gas to ammonia.
Overall, bacteroids play a vital role in the nitrogen cycle and contribute to the fertility of legume crops and the soil they grow in. Their symbiotic relationship with host plants highlights their importance in agricultural systems and emphasizes their impact on ecosystem sustainability.
Bacterioid.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "bacteroid" is derived from the combination of two terms: "bacter" and "oid".
The suffix "-oid" in English is used to indicate a resemblance or similarity to something, often from a visual or structural perspective. It is derived from the Greek word "oeides", meaning "shaped like" or "resembling".
The term "bacter" is derived from the word "bacteria", which refers to a type of microorganism. "Bacteria" originates from the Greek word "bakterion", meaning "little stick" or "rod". These microorganisms were initially observed under a microscope, appearing as tiny rods or sticks.
By combining "bacter" with the suffix "-oid", the word "bacteroid" was created to describe something that resembles or is similar to bacteria in some way.