Question

The cell wall less prokaryote among the following is

• A. Cyanobacteria
• B. Mycoplasma
• C. Bacteria
• D. Blue-Green Algae

Hint:

Mycoplasma lacks a cell wall, making it distinct among prokaryotes.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

• Prokaryotes Overview: Prokaryotes include bacteria and archaea, with most possessing cell walls. However, some lack cell walls.
• Organism Analysis:
  • (1) Cyanobacteria: Photosynthetic bacteria with a peptidoglycan cell wall. Incorrect.
  • (2) Mycoplasma: A genus of bacteria lacking a cell wall, surrounded only by a plasma membrane, making them unique among prokaryotes. Correct.
  • (3) Bacteria: A broad group, most of which have cell walls (e.g., peptidoglycan). Incorrect as a general category.
  • (4) Blue-Green Algae: Synonymous with cyanobacteria, which have cell walls. Incorrect.
• Biological Context: Mycoplasma's lack of a cell wall allows flexibility and resistance to antibiotics targeting cell wall synthesis (e.g., penicillin).
• Option Analysis:
  • (1) Cyanobacteria: Has a cell wall. Incorrect.
  • (2) Mycoplasma: No cell wall, fits the description. Correct.
  • (3) Bacteria: Most have cell walls. Incorrect.
  • (4) Blue-Green Algae: Has a cell wall. Incorrect.
• Conclusion: The correct answer is (2) Mycoplasma, as it is the only prokaryote listed without a cell wall.