How Microorganisms Stabilize Organics

BACTERIA

shapes are varied. Rod averages 1.5 to 3.0 microns long. Sphere diameters range from 0.5 to 1.0 microns.

FLAGELLA

are the wiggling filaments generally believed to be responsible for motility (movement) of most free-swimming bacterial cells.

 

BACTERIAL CELL STRUCTURE

is best studied in rod form bacteria. Capsule or slime layer is formed by decomposition of the cell wall.

FUNGI

tend to be filamentous. These non-photosynthetic plants use organic matter for their carbon and energy.

ALGAE

are often green (with many other colors found) and have many shapes. Unlike fungi and bacteria, they use light for their energy.

Cell Division

Bacteria feed by absorption through their cell membranes

In the first stage, they secrete enzymes (extra-cellular) which break down the large particulates and solids. Bacteria constantly produce enzymes.

In the second stage, the reduced particles are absorbed through the outer membrane where cellular enzymes break down the extra cellular enzymes.

In the third stage, the cellular enzymes are absorbed into the Inner Cell where Inner Cell Enzymes complete the reduction of the organic particles or food.

This process will produce CO2 and H2O and seed bacteria since cell division occurs when sufficient food is processed. Time and oxygen are very important when bacterial inoculants are employed.