Bacteria are unicellular microorganisms. These are prokaryotes or prokaryotic microorganisms, as compared to more complex life forms (such as human beings), which are eukaryotes. Bacteria are very small in size. In fact, they are so small that we cannot see them with our naked eye. They are typically a few micron in size and can have spherical, rod or spiral shapes. Although some of these microbes can be pathogenic in nature and cause diseases, a number of them are also useful. Environmental engineers often use a mixed bacterial culture (although some other microbes may also be there) in wastewater treatment.
Under adverse conditions, some bacteria may develop specialized coverings/structures to protect themselves. Such protective structures are known as bacterial spores and can protect the bacteria from a number of adverse environmental factors such as heat, dryness, toxic chemicals, etc. Spores ensure the survival of bacteria in harsh conditions.
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