Salmonella- Science Paper
Salmonella
[pic]
Image from: http://www.healthhype.com/wpcontent/uploads/Prokaryote_cell_diagram_bacterial_structure.png 1. Describe the structure of the micro-organism
Salmonella is a miniature bacterium which is rod shaped. It has diameters of around 0.7 to 1.5 µm, lengths from 2 to 5 µm, and flagella that flow in all directions. They are chemoorganotrophs (a primary nutritional group), getting their energy from oxidation (the interaction between oxygen molecules and other substances) and reduction reactions using organic sources, and are facultative anaerobes (an organism that can use oxygen but also has anaerobic (any organism that does not require oxygen for growth) methods of energy production, however, it can survive in either environment). Most species produce hydrogen sulfide. Salmonella found worldwide in cold and warm blooded animals (including humans), and in the environment. They cause illnesses such as typhoid fever, paratyphoid fever, and foodborne illness.
2. Explain how the micro-organism reproduces
Salmonella reproduce by binary fission. This is an asexual way of reproduction, and only produces two, usually identical cells from the original one. This reproduction occurs at a fast rate; producing once every 20-40 minutes if the conditions are suitable. The new cells then follow the lytic cell cycle (viral reproduction) to continue reproducing. Keeping salmonella in a cool place restrains growth, but doesn't kill the bacteria. Storing chicken in the fridge won't let the bacteria grow, but the chicken will still have salmonella.
3. Explain how it infects humans
People can become infected with salmonella by ingesting (swallowing) the bacterium. This can happen by eating food that has not been fully cooked, or by food that has been contaminated after preparation. Salmonella can be spread from human to human when an infected person does not thoroughly wash their hands after using the toilet. Health care providers and
[pic]
Image from: http://www.healthhype.com/wpcontent/uploads/Prokaryote_cell_diagram_bacterial_structure.png 1. Describe the structure of the micro-organism
Salmonella is a miniature bacterium which is rod shaped. It has diameters of around 0.7 to 1.5 µm, lengths from 2 to 5 µm, and flagella that flow in all directions. They are chemoorganotrophs (a primary nutritional group), getting their energy from oxidation (the interaction between oxygen molecules and other substances) and reduction reactions using organic sources, and are facultative anaerobes (an organism that can use oxygen but also has anaerobic (any organism that does not require oxygen for growth) methods of energy production, however, it can survive in either environment). Most species produce hydrogen sulfide. Salmonella found worldwide in cold and warm blooded animals (including humans), and in the environment. They cause illnesses such as typhoid fever, paratyphoid fever, and foodborne illness.
2. Explain how the micro-organism reproduces
Salmonella reproduce by binary fission. This is an asexual way of reproduction, and only produces two, usually identical cells from the original one. This reproduction occurs at a fast rate; producing once every 20-40 minutes if the conditions are suitable. The new cells then follow the lytic cell cycle (viral reproduction) to continue reproducing. Keeping salmonella in a cool place restrains growth, but doesn't kill the bacteria. Storing chicken in the fridge won't let the bacteria grow, but the chicken will still have salmonella.
3. Explain how it infects humans
People can become infected with salmonella by ingesting (swallowing) the bacterium. This can happen by eating food that has not been fully cooked, or by food that has been contaminated after preparation. Salmonella can be spread from human to human when an infected person does not thoroughly wash their hands after using the toilet. Health care providers and