Question

Discuss basic characteristics of Gram +ve and Gram -ve bacteria.

Answer 1

Bacteria fall into two natural groups according to their cell wall structure. Those retain Grams stain are called Gram +ve and those which do not retain the stain during the decolourising procedure are said to be Gram -ve. In both types the wall has a rigid unique framework of peptidoglycan. In Gram +ve bacteria, the peptidoglycan net is in filled with polysaccharides and proteins, to form a relatively thick, rigid structure, whereas the walls of Gram -ve bacteria are thinner and coated on the outside with a smooth, soft layer which is rich in characteristic lipopolysaccharide molecules.