Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Aerobic refers to processes or organisms that require oxygen to survive and grow. In prokaryotes, aerobic respiration is a key metabolic pathway for energy production.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Aerobic respiration in prokaryotes involves the electron transport chain and produces more ATP compared to anaerobic processes.
Most aerobic bacteria use oxygen as the final electron acceptor in their respiratory chain.
Some archaea are also capable of aerobic metabolism, utilizing unique enzymes adapted to extreme environments.
Aerobic conditions can influence the growth rate and ecological niche of bacteria and archaea.
Obligate aerobes cannot survive without oxygen, whereas facultative aerobes can switch between aerobic and anaerobic metabolism.
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Related terms
Anaerobic: Processes or organisms that do not require oxygen for survival and may even die in its presence.
Facultative Anaerobe: Organisms that can switch between aerobic and anaerobic metabolism depending on oxygen availability.
Obligate Aerobe: Organisms that require oxygen for survival and cannot undergo anaerobic metabolism.