Eubacteria – Definition, Structure, Characterisitcs, Types, Examples

What is Eubacteria?

• Eubacteria, also known as “true bacteria,” are prokaryotic microorganisms that play a significant role in various fields, including economics, agriculture, and medicine. They belong to the domain Bacteria, one of the three major domains of life alongside Archaea and Eukarya. Unlike eukaryotes, eubacteria lack a membrane-bound nucleus and have DNA organized in a single circular chromosome. They are predominantly unicellular organisms with a cell wall, which, when present, is composed of peptidoglycan.
• The classification of all living organisms involves categorizing them into these three domains. Eukarya comprises eukaryotic organisms, Archaea includes archaebacteria, and Eubacteria encompasses true bacteria. Eubacteria form the largest domain and encompass a diverse range of organisms. Some well-known examples of eubacteria include E. coli, Staphylococcus, Salmonella, and Lactobacillus.
• Eubacteria, along with archaebacteria, are classified as prokaryotes, which means they lack a defined nucleus and have simpler cell structures compared to eukaryotes. Eukaryotes, on the other hand, include unicellular and multicellular protists, plants, algae, and animals, and have more complex cellular organization.
• One distinguishing feature of eubacteria is their cell wall, which consists of peptidoglycan. However, not all bacteria possess cell walls. Nevertheless, all eubacteria have a cell membrane composed of glycerol and fatty acids linked by ester bonds.
• Microscopes are essential tools for studying eubacteria since they are too small to be seen by the naked eye. Staining techniques are commonly used to visualize bacteria and highlight their morphology. Gram staining is a widely used technique that classifies bacteria into gram-negative or gram-positive based on their response to staining.
• Gram-positive bacteria have a thick and rigid cell wall with multiple layers of peptidoglycan, which is highlighted by the gram stain. They also contain lipoteichoic acid in their cell wall, which aids in growth and provides antigenic specificity to different types of gram-positive bacteria.
• In contrast, gram-negative bacteria have a cell wall with a single layer of peptidoglycan and lack lipoteichoic acid. The outer membrane of their cell wall consists of lipopolysaccharides, phospholipids, and lipoproteins, providing protection against immune cell detection, phagocytosis, and certain antibiotics. This outer structure also helps gram-negative bacteria withstand bile salts, heavy metals, digestive enzymes, detergents, and other harsh environmental conditions.
• Eubacteria primarily reproduce through a process called binary fission, where the parent cell divides into two daughter cells after the replication of genetic material. Some bacteria, in response to unfavorable conditions, have the ability to form spores. These spores are highly resistant to toxins, radiation, heat, and dryness but are unable to reproduce. Spore-forming bacteria, such as Bacillus and Clostridium, are considered virulent, and sterilization techniques must be employed to eliminate bacterial spores. When environmental conditions become favorable again, bacterial spores germinate and resume vegetative growth and reproduction.
• In conclusion, eubacteria are diverse prokaryotic microorganisms that form the domain Bacteria. They possess unique cell wall structures and play crucial roles in various aspects of life. Understanding their characteristics and behaviors is essential for advancements in fields such as microbiology, medicine, agriculture, and environmental science.

Definition of Eubacteria

Eubacteria, also known as true bacteria, are prokaryotic microorganisms that belong to the domain Bacteria. They are single-celled organisms lacking a nucleus, with DNA organized in a single circular chromosome. Eubacteria can be gram-negative or gram-positive and have economic, agricultural, and medical significance. Examples include E. coli, Lactobacilli, and Azospirillum.

Characteristics of Eubacteria

Characteristics of Eubacteria:

1. Unicellular Prokaryotic Organisms: Eubacteria, also known as true bacteria, are unicellular microorganisms belonging to the prokaryotic domain of life. They lack a membrane-bound nucleus and other cell organelles found in eukaryotic cells.
2. Stiff Cell Walls: Eubacteria have cell walls composed of peptidoglycans, which provide structural rigidity and support to the cell. The peptidoglycan layer gives the bacteria their characteristic shape and protects them from osmotic pressure changes.
3. Flagella for Locomotion: Eubacteria possess flagella, whip-like appendages that protrude from the cell surface. These flagella enable the bacteria to move and navigate through their environment.
4. Heterotrophic, Photosynthetic, or Chemosynthetic: The majority of eubacteria are heterotrophic, obtaining their energy and nutrients from external sources. However, some eubacteria are photosynthetic, using sunlight as an energy source and converting carbon dioxide into organic compounds. Additionally, certain eubacteria are chemosynthetic, deriving energy from the oxidation of inorganic compounds.
5. Pili for Reproduction and Attachment: Some eubacteria have pili, which are small appendages present on the surface of the cell. Pili serve multiple functions, including aiding in sexual reproduction between bacterial cells and facilitating the attachment of pathogens to host tissues.
6. Size Range: Eubacteria exhibit a wide range of sizes, typically ranging from 0.2 to 50 micrometers in length. Their size can vary depending on the specific bacterial species.
7. Gram Staining Classification: Eubacteria are classified into gram-positive and gram-negative based on their reaction to the Gram stain. Gram-positive bacteria retain the stain and appear purple, while gram-negative bacteria do not retain the stain and appear pink. Gram-negative bacteria are often harmful to humans, while gram-positive bacteria can have beneficial effects on human health.
8. Cell Arrangements: Eubacteria are typically found as individual cells, but they can also form colonies in the form of filaments or aggregates known as surface biofilms. These biofilms allow bacteria to adhere to surfaces and interact with each other.
9. Reproduction: Eubacteria reproduce through binary fission, where a single bacterial cell divides into two identical daughter cells. Some eubacteria can also reproduce through budding, where a small outgrowth or bud develops on the parent cell and eventually separates to form a new individual.
10. Cellular Composition: Eubacteria cells consist of lipids, carbohydrates, proteins, and nucleic acids. Their cellular structure is relatively simple compared to eukaryotic cells, lacking membrane-bound organelles such as mitochondria and chloroplasts.
11. Ribosomes and Protein Synthesis: Eubacteria contain 70S-type ribosomes, which are organelles composed of RNA and proteins responsible for protein synthesis through translation.
12. Cell Shapes: Eubacteria exhibit various shapes, including cocci (spherical), bacilli (rod-shaped), rods, vibrio (comma-shaped), filaments, and spirochetes. The shape of a bacterium can be indicative of its species or genus.
13. Absence of Introns: Eubacteria lack introns, which are non-coding regions of DNA found in eukaryotic genes. Their genetic material is typically more streamlined and compact.
14. Spore Formation: Some eubacteria have the ability to produce spores, which are dormant structures that allow them to survive in unfavorable conditions. Spore formation helps eubacteria withstand harsh environments and can contribute to the spread of certain diseases.

Structure of Eubacteria

The structure of eubacteria consists of various components that contribute to their overall function and characteristics. These include:

1. Capsule: Some eubacterial cells are surrounded by a capsule, which is made up of polypeptides or polysaccharides. The capsule serves multiple functions, including protecting the bacteria from phagocytosis by the immune system, causing disease in certain bacteria, storing food material, and acting as a site for waste disposal.
2. Cell wall: The cell wall of eubacteria is located beneath the capsule and is composed of peptidoglycan. It provides rigidity and shape to the cell, protects it from osmotic pressure differences, and can be targeted by antibiotics that disrupt its structure.
3. Flagella: Eubacteria may have flagella, which are long appendages composed of flagellin molecules. Flagella enable bacteria to move through a longitudinal wave-like motion, facilitating their locomotion. The number and position of flagella can vary among different bacterial species.
4. Pilli or fimbriae: Pilli or fimbriae are short, hair-like appendages that extend beyond the cell wall. They are composed of proteins such as pilin or fibrillin. Pilli play a crucial role in attachment to host cells and are involved in processes like conjugation, where genetic material is transferred between bacterial cells.
5. Plasma membrane: The plasma membrane of eubacteria is a semi-permeable lipid bilayer membrane composed of lipids and proteins. It regulates the transport of ions, molecules, nutrients, and water across the membrane.
6. Ribosome: Eubacteria contain 70S ribosomes in the cytoplasm. Ribosomes are responsible for protein synthesis, translating the genetic message carried by mRNA into proteins.
7. Nucleoid: The nucleoid is the DNA of eubacteria, often referred to as the bacterial chromosome. It consists of a single circular chromosome and carries the genetic information of the bacteria.
8. Mesosome: Mesosomes are found in the form of tubules and vessels within eubacterial cells. They serve various functions, including increasing the surface area for transportation, acting as the site of attachment for certain enzymes, contributing to the control of autolytic enzyme activity, and aiding in septum formation during cell division.

Eubacteria are unicellular organisms, and each bacterial cell consists of these structures. The external and internal components work together to carry out essential biological processes, including movement, reproduction, metabolism, and genetic expression. Understanding the structure of eubacteria is crucial for studying their biology, interactions with other organisms, and developing strategies for combating bacterial infections.

Types of Eubacteria 

Eubacteria, also known as true bacteria, exhibit a diverse range of types based on various characteristics. Here are some types of eubacteria:

1. Gram-positive bacteria: These bacteria have a thick cell wall consisting of a high amount of peptidoglycan (about 80%). They retain the blue or violet color in Gram staining. Gram-positive bacteria generally have a lower lipid content and are sensitive to lysozyme and antibiotics. Examples include Azotobacter and Mycobacterium.
2. Gram-negative bacteria: Gram-negative bacteria have a thin cell wall with a lower amount of peptidoglycan (about 20%). They do not retain the blue color but retain the pink or red color of the counterstain (safranin) in Gram staining. Gram-negative bacteria have a higher lipid content, which contributes to their resistance to lysozyme and antibiotics. Examples of Gram-negative bacteria include Salmonella and E. coli.
3. Cyanobacteria: Cyanobacteria are a sub-group of eubacteria. They have prokaryotic cells and exhibit unique characteristics. The cell wall of cyanobacteria comprises murein along with cellulose, hemicellulose, and pectin. Unlike other bacteria, cyanobacteria lack flagella. They perform oxygenic photosynthesis and play a significant role in producing oxygen on Earth. Some cyanobacteria have specialized cells called heterocysts. Cyanobacteria do not possess sex organs or motile reproductive bodies.

Apart from the Gram staining classification, eubacteria can be further classified based on their shape, oxygen requirements, nutrition, and cell wall composition.

Shapes of eubacteria include:

• Bacillus: Rod-shaped bacteria that can occur singly, in pairs (diplobacilli), or in chains (streptobacilli).
• Coccus: Spherical or round-shaped bacteria that can occur singly, in pairs (diplococci), in chains (streptococci), or in clusters (staphylococci).
• Spirillum: Spiral-shaped bacteria that have rigid bodies resembling a corkscrew.
• Vibrio: Curved or comma-shaped bacteria.

Classification of Eubacteria

Eubacteria can be classified into various phyla, each with its own characteristics:

• Proteobacteria: This phylum includes the majority of gram-negative bacteria and is further divided into classes like alphaproteobacteria, betaproteobacteria, gammaproteobacteria, deltaproteobacteria, and epsilonproteobacteria.
• Cyanobacteria: Cyanobacteria possess a blue-green pigment and perform photosynthesis similar to plants and algae.
• Chlorobi: This phylum consists of green sulfur bacteria that reduce carbon dioxide during photosynthesis using organic compounds.
• Chloroflexi: Chloroflexi includes green nonsulfur bacteria capable of performing photosynthesis.
• Chlamydiae: This phylum comprises pathogenic gram-negative cocci that have a unique developmental cycle and are transmitted between humans.
• Planctomycetes: Planctomycetes are budding gram-negative bacteria with unique characteristics, including similarities to both bacteria and archaea.
• Bacteroidetes: Bacteroidetes are anaerobic bacteria commonly found in the human intestinal tract and oral cavity.
• Fusobacteria: Fusobacteria are anaerobic bacteria with a pleomorphic or spindle-shaped cell morphology.
• Spirochaetes: Spirochaetes are coiled bacteria with flagella that facilitate their movement using axial filaments. They are often found in the human mouth.

These are just a few examples of the diverse types of eubacteria. Each type exhibits distinct characteristics and plays unique roles in various ecosystems and environments.

Evolution of Eubacteria 

The evolution of eubacteria, one of the major domains of life, is a fascinating process that has shaped the diversity and complexity of microbial life on Earth. Here are some key points regarding the evolution of eubacteria:

1. Prokaryotic Origin: The simplest bacteria and blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, are classified as prokaryotic cells. Prokaryotes lack a nuclear membrane that separates the genetic material (DNA) from the cytoplasmic bodies. They also lack introns, which are non-coding regions within genes.
2. Progenote and Cell Diversification: Phylogenetically, the progenote, which represents the last universal common ancestor of all cells, eventually gave rise to three major cell types: Archaebacteria, Eubacteria, and eukaryotes. These distinct cell types evolved through genetic variations and adaptations.
3. Horizontal Gene Transfer: Molecular theories propose that genes were transferred horizontally between different types of cells, including Archaebacteria, Eubacteria, and eukaryotes. Horizontal gene transfer, where genetic material is transferred between organisms of the same or different species, has played a significant role in shaping the evolutionary process of life.
4. Endosymbiotic Theory: One of the prominent theories explaining the evolution of eukaryotic cells suggests that certain organelles, such as mitochondria and chloroplasts, originated from endosymbiosis. According to this theory, ancestral eukaryotic cells engulfed free-living bacteria capable of aerobic respiration (leading to the formation of mitochondria) and photosynthesis (leading to the formation of chloroplasts). These symbiotic relationships allowed the host cell and endosymbionts to benefit mutually, leading to the development of more complex cellular structures and functions.
5. Diversity of Eubacteria: Eubacteria encompass a wide range of bacterial groups with diverse characteristics. Some examples of eubacterial groups include cyanobacteria, chloroxybacteria, Paracoccus, non-sulfur bacteria, sulfur bacteria, green filamentous bacteria, green sulfur bacteria, spirochetes, and Desulfovibrio. Each group exhibits unique features, ecological roles, and adaptations that have evolved over time.

The evolution of eubacteria is a complex process that involves genetic variations, horizontal gene transfer, and symbiotic relationships. These mechanisms have contributed to the diversification and adaptation of eubacteria, leading to the remarkable microbial diversity seen today. Understanding the evolutionary history of eubacteria provides valuable insights into the origins and development of life on our planet.

Reproduction in Eubacteria

Reproduction in eubacteria is primarily achieved through asexual means, although certain mechanisms allow for genetic exchange and the transfer of genetic material. Here are some key points about reproduction in eubacteria:

1. Asexual Reproduction: The most common method of reproduction in eubacteria is asexual reproduction, particularly through a process called binary fission. In binary fission, the parent cell undergoes replication of its genetic material and then divides into two daughter cells, each containing a copy of the genetic material. This process allows for rapid multiplication and population growth.
2. Spore Formation: Some eubacteria have the ability to form spores when faced with unfavorable environmental conditions such as nutrient deficiency, radiation exposure, chemical exposure, or extreme temperatures. Spore-forming bacteria enter a dormant state where they form a tough protective covering around their genetic material. While in spore form, these bacteria are metabolically inactive and cannot reproduce. However, spores are highly resistant to heat, chemicals, toxins, and dryness, allowing the bacteria to survive in harsh conditions. When the environmental conditions become favorable again, spores can germinate and resume their vegetative growth and reproductive processes.
3. Genetic Exchange: While true sexual reproduction involving the fusion of gametes is absent in eubacteria, genetic exchange can still occur through various mechanisms:

• Conjugation: Conjugation involves the transfer of genetic material between two bacterial cells. A donor cell with a specific genetic element called a plasmid forms a physical connection, usually through a structure called a pilus, with a recipient cell. The plasmid containing the genetic material is then transferred from the donor to the recipient, increasing the genetic diversity of the bacterial population.
• Transformation: Transformation is the uptake of free DNA from the environment by a bacterial cell. The DNA may come from the lysis of other bacterial cells or from the release of genetic material into the environment. The recipient cell incorporates the foreign DNA into its own genetic material, potentially acquiring new traits or genetic variations.
• Transduction: Transduction involves the transfer of genetic material between bacterial cells through the assistance of bacteriophages, which are viruses that infect bacteria. During a viral infection, bacteriophages can inadvertently package bacterial DNA along with their own genetic material. When the phage infects another bacterial cell, it delivers this packaged DNA, introducing new genetic material into the recipient cell.

These mechanisms of genetic exchange, conjugation, transformation, and transduction contribute to the genetic diversity and adaptation of eubacteria.

While asexual reproduction is the primary mode of reproduction in eubacteria, the ability to form spores and the mechanisms of genetic exchange provide them with additional strategies for survival and adaptation in different environmental conditions.

Mode of nutrition of Eubacteria

Eubacteria exhibit diverse modes of nutrition, including both heterotrophic and autotrophic strategies. Here’s an overview of the different modes of nutrition observed in eubacteria:

1. Heterotrophic Nutrition: The majority of eubacteria are heterotrophs, meaning they rely on external sources to obtain their nutrition. They are unable to synthesize their own food and instead obtain organic carbon and energy by consuming other organisms or organic matter. Heterotrophic eubacteria can be further classified into different groups based on their specific feeding habits:

• Saprophytic Bacteria: These bacteria decompose dead organic material, such as decaying plants or animal matter. They play a crucial role in nutrient recycling and the breakdown of organic substances in ecosystems.
• Parasitic Bacteria: Some eubacteria are parasites that live inside or on a host organism, deriving nutrients from the host’s tissues or body fluids. These bacteria may cause diseases in their hosts and rely on them for their survival and reproduction.

2. Autotrophic Nutrition: While heterotrophy is more common in eubacteria, there are also autotrophic eubacteria that are capable of synthesizing their own food. Autotrophs can be further classified into two main types based on their energy source:

• Chemosynthetic Bacteria: Chemosynthetic eubacteria obtain energy by oxidizing inorganic substances, such as hydrogen sulfide or ammonia. They use the energy derived from these chemical reactions to convert carbon dioxide into organic compounds, thus sustaining themselves without relying on external energy sources like sunlight.
• Photosynthetic Bacteria: Photosynthetic eubacteria, like cyanobacteria, have the ability to capture energy from sunlight and convert it into chemical energy through the process of photosynthesis. They contain pigments, such as chlorophyll, that enable them to absorb light energy and utilize it for the synthesis of organic compounds from carbon dioxide and water. Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, are a prominent example of photosynthetic eubacteria and play a significant role in oxygen production and primary production in aquatic ecosystems.

It’s important to note that eubacteria encompass a vast diversity of species with varying nutritional requirements and strategies. While heterotrophy is widespread among eubacteria, autotrophic eubacteria, both chemosynthetic and photosynthetic, contribute to the overall ecological functioning of different environments.

Importance of Eubacteria

Eubacteria, also known as true bacteria, play a crucial role in various aspects of life on Earth. Here are some important contributions and roles of eubacteria:

1. Soil Fertility: Eubacteria have a significant impact on soil fertility. They contribute to the process of nitrification, converting ammonia into nitrates that plants can absorb and utilize for growth. Additionally, certain eubacteria have the ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen, converting it into forms that can be readily used by plants. Eubacteria also aid in the process of ammonification, breaking down organic nitrogen compounds into ammonia, which can then be further utilized by plants.
2. Vitamin Synthesis: Several species of eubacteria are involved in the synthesis of essential vitamins. For example, Propionibacterium and Pseudomonas spp. are utilized in the production of vitamin B12, an important nutrient for humans. These bacteria can provide a cost-effective and safe source of vitamins, which are used in various industries including food and pharmaceuticals.
3. Pharmaceutical Industry: Eubacteria, particularly strains of Streptomyces spp., have been extensively used in the pharmaceutical industry for the production of antibiotics. Streptomyces spp. are known to produce a wide range of antibiotics, such as streptomycin and tetracycline, which are vital in treating bacterial infections and saving lives. These antibiotics have revolutionized medicine and continue to be essential in combating infectious diseases.
4. Dairy Industry: Eubacteria, specifically Lactobacillus species, are commonly employed in the dairy industry for the production of yogurt, cheese, and other fermented dairy products. Lactobacillus bacteria convert lactose into lactic acid, contributing to the characteristic flavor and texture of fermented dairy products. Additionally, these bacteria play a role in food preservation by inhibiting the growth of harmful microorganisms.
5. Bioremediation: Certain eubacteria possess the ability to degrade petroleum hydrocarbons, aiding in the cleanup of oil spills and contaminated environments. These bacteria can break down complex hydrocarbon compounds into simpler forms, minimizing the environmental impact of oil pollution.
6. Decomposition: Eubacteria are essential in the natural process of decomposition. They help break down dead organic matter, including plants, animals, and waste materials, into simpler compounds. This decomposition process releases nutrients back into the ecosystem, allowing them to be recycled and utilized by other organisms.
7. Human Microbiota: Eubacteria inhabit the human body as part of the normal flora. They colonize various regions, such as the skin, gastrointestinal tract, and oral cavity. The presence of beneficial eubacteria in the human microbiota helps protect against pathogenic bacteria by competing for resources and producing antimicrobial substances. Additionally, some eubacteria in the gut produce vitamins, such as vitamin B and vitamin K, which contribute to the overall health of the body.

Overall, eubacteria have immense ecological, industrial, and health-related importance. They contribute to ecosystem functioning, food production, medicine, environmental cleanup, and human well-being, highlighting their indispensable role in various aspects of life.

Examples of Eubacteria

Here are some examples of eubacteria and their significance:

1. Nitrobacter and Nitrosomonas: These bacteria are involved in the process of nitrification, converting ammonium to nitrite (Nitrosomonas) and nitrite to nitrates (Nitrobacter). Nitrates are important forms of nitrogen for plants and play a crucial role in agricultural ecosystems.
2. Zoogloea species: These bacteria contribute to sewage treatment processes, particularly in the activated sludge system. They form a slimy, fluffy mass that helps in the breakdown of organic matter, aiding in the efficient treatment of wastewater.
3. Xanthomonas campestris: This bacterium has the ability to produce xanthan, a polysaccharide that has thickening properties. Xanthan is widely used in various industries, including food production, cosmetics, and personal care products.
4. Escherichia coli (E. coli): E. coli is a well-known bacterium found in the gut of humans and other warm-blooded animals. While most strains of E. coli are harmless or even beneficial, some can cause food poisoning and other illnesses. It serves as an important model organism in scientific research.
5. Streptococcus pneumoniae: S. pneumoniae is a Gram-positive bacterium commonly found in the respiratory tract of healthy individuals. However, it can cause serious infections such as pneumonia and meningitis, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. It is an important focus of medical research and vaccine development.

These examples highlight the diverse roles of eubacteria in various fields, including agriculture, wastewater treatment, industry, and human health. While some eubacteria can be pathogenic, many others play essential roles in ecological processes and have practical applications in different industries. Understanding the characteristics and significance of these bacteria helps us appreciate their importance in the natural world and human activities.

Difference between Eubacteria and Archaebacteria

The main differences between Eubacteria and Archaebacteria, also known as Archaea, can be summarized as follows:

1. Complexity and Habitat:

• Eubacteria are complex microorganisms found in various habitats on Earth, ranging from soil and water to the human body.
• Archaebacteria are generally simpler microorganisms and are often found in extreme environments, such as high temperatures (thermophiles), oxygen-free environments (methanogens), or environments rich in salt (halophiles).

2. Cell Wall Composition:

• Eubacteria have a cell wall made up of peptidoglycan, which provides structure and protection to the cell.
• Archaebacteria have a cell wall made up of pseudopeptidoglycan or lack peptidoglycan altogether. Some archaea have unique cell wall components that differ from both eubacteria and eukaryotes.

3. Energy Generation:

• Eubacteria can obtain energy through various metabolic pathways, including the Krebs cycle and glycolysis.
• Archaebacteria, in general, cannot perform glycolysis or the Krebs cycle for energy generation and rely on alternative metabolic pathways.

4. RNA Polymerase:

• Eubacteria have a relatively simple RNA polymerase enzyme involved in transcription.
• Archaebacteria have a more complex RNA polymerase enzyme compared to eubacteria.

5. Membrane Lipids:

• Eubacteria typically contain L-glycerol phosphate in their membrane lipids.
• Archaebacteria have membrane lipids that often contain D-glycerol phosphate, which is structurally different from the lipids found in eubacteria.

6. Introns:

• Eubacteria lack introns in their genetic material.
• Archaebacteria can contain introns, which are non-coding regions within genes.

Examples of Eubacteria include Bacillus, Mycobacterium, Clostridium, and Pseudomonas. Examples of Archaebacteria include Ferroplasma, Thermoproteus, Halobacterium, and Pyrobaculum.

In summary, while both Eubacteria and Archaebacteria are prokaryotic microorganisms, they differ in terms of complexity, habitat preferences, cell wall composition, energy generation, RNA polymerase structure, membrane lipid composition, and the presence of introns. These differences reflect their distinct evolutionary lineages and adaptations to different environmental conditions.

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