archaeobacteria

9.9

Very small, ancient single-celled organisms different from bacteria that live in hot springs or salt lakes

noun
/ˌɑrkiəʊbækˈtɪəriə/

Archaic

: arqueobacterias

Scientists once classified archaeobacteria as a type of bacteria before recognizing their distinct characteristics.

Examples

The unique cell membranes of archaeobacteria distinguish them from both bacteria and eukaryotes.
An archaeobacterium was discovered in the hot springs of Yellowstone.
Recent studies suggest that archaeobacteria thrive in extreme environments such as hot springs and salt lakes.
Scientists once classified archaeobacteria as a type of bacteria before recognizing their distinct characteristics.
The study of archaeobacteria reveals insights into early life on Earth.
Recent studies suggest that archaeobacteria thrive in extreme environments such as hot springs and salt lakes.
The study of archaeobacteria reveals insights into early life on Earth.

Synonyms

archaea

vsarchaeobacteria

Specialized

2 9.9

Single-celled living things that often live in extreme places like hot springs or deep ocean vents

focuses on their ancient separate evolution rather than habitat or modern naming

archaebacteria

vsarchaeobacteria

Archaic

9.9

Very small simple living things that are like early life and often live in hot springs or salty water

is the modern classification placing those organisms in the current domain

Surface Forms

archaeobacteria singular

archaeobacteria plural

Morphology

archaeobacteria = bacteria (semi-transparent) = archaeo + bacteria

The combining form 'archaeo-' plus 'bacteria' suggests 'ancient bacteria', but modern taxonomy treats these organisms as a distinct domain (archaea), so the literal inference is only partially accurate.

Etymology

Archaeobacteria comes from two parts: archaeo- meaning 'ancient' (as in archaeology) and bacteria meaning 'tiny life'. So the name is a helpful memory: these are very old, tiny organisms that look like bacteria but are different in important ways.