What is Virus?
Viruses are non-living entities. They need a host cell within which they replicate. They are neither single cells nor cellular organisms. They contain a small genetic information inside their capsid which is a protective cell that protects the DNA or RNA of a virus.
Diagram of Virus
Characteristics of Virus
Some major characteristics of virus are mentioned below:
- Viruses are acellular. They have a cellular structure that consists of genetic material (DNA or RNA). It is surrounded by a protein coat.
- Viruses cannot replicate independently. They actively rely on host cells to reproduce.
- The genetic material of viruses is DNA or RNA. But not both at the same time. DNA or RNA carries the instructions for viral replication.
- Viruses attack the host cells and infect their body.
- Viruses use the host body to replicate. It harms the host in the process.
- Viruses do not have any cellular machinery for metabolism. They produce their energy on their own.
- Each virus has a specific host range. It targets particular types of cells or organisms every time.
- The capsid is the protein coat that surrounds the genetic material of the virus. It provides protection to the genetic material of the virus.
- Viruses can mutate rapidly which can challenge the treatment and prevention measures.
- Viruses primarily depend on their host body. They are actively dependent on the host body for the reproduction process.
Also Read: Viruses, Viroids, Prions And Lichens
Difference Between Virus And Bacteria
The major difference between viruses and bacteria is that viruses are non-living entities composed of genetic material, while bacteria are living single-celled organisms with distinct cellular structures. Viruses and bacteria are microscopic organisms that can cause disease.
Understanding the difference between viruses and bacteria helps students to learn about these microorganisms in detail. In this article, we will talk about how are bacteria different from viruses and discuss some of the major differences between them.
Difference Between Virus And Bacteria
Table of Content
- What is Bacteria?
- Characteristics of Bacteria
- What is Virus?
- Characteristics of Virus
- How Are Bacteria Different from Viruses? – Differences Between Virus And Bacteria
- Conclusion – Difference Between Virus And Bacteria
- Other Related Difference Article Links
- FAQs – Difference Between Virus And Bacteria