In the context of an introduction to bacteria, which statement about bacteria is incorrect?

• A. Bacteria are eukaryotic organisms with membrane-bound organelles such as mitochondria.
• B. Bacteria have cell walls that often contain peptidoglycan.
• C. Bacteria reproduce primarily by binary fission.
• D. Bacteria are prokaryotic organisms that lack a membrane-bound nucleus.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the basic classification of bacteria. Bacteria are classified as prokaryotic organisms, meaning they do not have a membrane-bound nucleus or membrane-bound organelles such as mitochondria.
2. Step 2: Review the characteristics of bacterial cell structure. Bacteria typically have cell walls that contain peptidoglycan, which is a polymer that provides structural support.
3. Step 3: Consider bacterial reproduction methods. Bacteria primarily reproduce asexually through a process called binary fission, where one cell divides into two identical daughter cells.
4. Step 4: Analyze the given statements to identify which one conflicts with the fundamental characteristics of bacteria. The statement claiming bacteria are eukaryotic with membrane-bound organelles contradicts their prokaryotic nature.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the incorrect statement is the one describing bacteria as eukaryotic organisms with membrane-bound organelles such as mitochondria, since bacteria lack these features.