Monotrichous

Definition

Monotrichous describes a bacterium that has a single flagellum located at one of its poles. This flagellum is used for motility, allowing the bacterium to move in its environment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Monotrichous bacteria use their single flagellum for locomotion.
2. The term 'monotrichous' comes from the Greek words 'mono,' meaning single, and 'thrix,' meaning hair.
3. Examples of monotrichous bacteria include Vibrio cholerae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
4. The single flagellum of a monotrichous bacterium can rotate both clockwise and counterclockwise to change direction.
5. In a nutrient-rich environment, monotrichous bacteria can exhibit chemotaxis, moving toward higher concentrations of nutrients.

Review Questions

Related terms

Lophotrichous: Describes bacteria with multiple flagella located at one pole.

Peritrichous: Describes bacteria with flagella distributed over the entire surface.

Amphitrichous: Describes bacteria with a single flagellum at each pole.