Bacteria are rarely larger than 1-2 $\mu$m in size, and are typically shaped like rods, spheres, or spirals. What likely accounts for the shape and size of these prokaryotes?
A)Such shapes likely make it difficult for predators to catch bacteria.
B)Such shapes can accommodate the complex arrangements of plasmids within bacteria.
C)Such shapes facilitate the formation of pili in bacteria.
D)Such shapes maximize the surface area over which nutrients can diffuse into bacteria.
E)Such shapes both facilitate the formation of pili in bacteria and maximize the surface area over which nutrients can diffuse into bacteria.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The small size and diverse shapes of bacteria allow for a large surface area-to-volume ratio, which maximizes the surface area over which nutrients can diffuse into the cell. This facilitates the efficient uptake of nutrients needed for growth and reproduction. The diverse shapes also allow bacteria to occupy a variety of niches and habitats, and may aid in their motility and attachment to surfaces.

Bacteria Are Rarely Larger Than 1-2 μ\muμ M in Size, and Are Typically Shaped Like Rods, Spheres

Bacteria Are Rarely Larger Than 1-2 $\mu$ M in Size, and Are Typically Shaped Like Rods, Spheres