Question

Short notes on prokaryotic cell envelope and its modification

Answer 1

Prokaryotic cell envelope possess chemically complex cell envelope. The cell envelope comprises of three layers: the outermost glycocalyx, the cell wall and the plasma membrane. All the three layers together act as a single protective unit.

Bacteria is classified into two groups based on the response to the gram staining method −

Gram positive Cells that take up the gram stain and are stained dark blue or purple.

Gram negative Cells that do not take up the gram stain and are stained pink or light red.

If glycocalyx is present as a loose sheath it is called slime layer. At times glycocalyx is present as thick and tough layer then it is called capsule.