HETEROCYST Meaning and
Definition
-
A heterocyst is a specialized cell found in certain filamentous bacteria, specifically in the cyanobacteria group. Cyanobacteria are photosynthetic microorganisms that obtain energy through photosynthesis like plants. Heterocysts, however, have a distinct role within these bacteria.
The primary function of heterocysts is to fix atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form for the bacteria. These cells are characterized by their larger size, cylindrical shape, and a thickened outer cell wall that helps create an anaerobic environment inside the heterocyst. Nitrogen fixation is an energy-intensive process that requires a low oxygen environment because the nitrogenase enzyme responsible for the reaction is sensitive to oxygen.
Heterocysts are usually located at regular intervals along the filamentous cyanobacterial chains, and their distribution is regulated by the surrounding environmental conditions. When nitrogen in the environment becomes limited, the surrounding vegetative cells differentiate to become heterocysts. These specialized cells then serve as sites for nitrogen fixation to provide the necessary nutrients for the growth and survival of the entire filamentous bacteria. Heterocysts transfer the fixed nitrogen to the surrounding cells in exchange for photosynthetically produced sugars as an energy source.
The presence of heterocysts in cyanobacteria demonstrates their ability to adapt and thrive in various habitats, as they play a crucial role in the nitrogen cycle by converting inert nitrogen gas from the atmosphere into compounds that are essential for life.
Common Misspellings for HETEROCYST
- geterocyst
- beterocyst
- neterocyst
- jeterocyst
- ueterocyst
- yeterocyst
- hwterocyst
- hsterocyst
- hdterocyst
- hrterocyst
- h4terocyst
- h3terocyst
- hererocyst
- heferocyst
- hegerocyst
- heyerocyst
- he6erocyst
- he5erocyst
- hetwrocyst
Etymology of HETEROCYST
The word "heterocyst" has its etymology rooted in Greek and Latin sources.
The term originates from the Greek word "heteros" (ἕτερος), which means "different" or "other", and the Latin word "cista", which means "box" or "bag".
In the context of biology, a heterocyst is a specialized cell found in certain types of cyanobacteria, which perform nitrogen fixation. The term "heterocyst" was coined to describe these cells due to their distinct morphology and function compared to other typical vegetative cells in the cyanobacteria filaments. The name "heterocyst" essentially refers to the fact that these cells are different or "other" in their role and appearance.
