Evidence for Evolution: Resistant Bacteria

• What is the significance of fossils in evolution?

  They show how different species evolved over time
• How quickly can bacteria reproduce under ideal conditions?

  Every 30 minutes
• Why can bacteria evolve rapidly?

  They reproduce at a fast rate
• When did doctors begin to treat bacterial diseases with antibiotics?

  In the 1940s
• What is the function of antibiotics?

  They kill bacteria
• What is one common strain of antibiotic-resistant bacteria?

  MRSA
• What happens to bacteria when an antibiotic is used?

  All are killed except resistant bacteria
• How does antibiotic resistance develop in bacteria?

  Through genetic variation and mutations
• Why is it important to reduce the development of antibiotic-resistant strains?

  They have no effective treatment
• What are three ways to reduce antibiotic resistance?

  • Avoid inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions
  • Complete the full course of antibiotics
  • Restrict the use of antibiotics in farming
• What is a consequence of not completing a course of antibiotics?

  Some bacteria may survive and mutate
• What is a challenge in developing new antibiotics?

  It takes a long time and is expensive
• Why is it unlikely to keep up with antibiotic-resistant bacteria?

  New resistant bacteria emerge constantly
• Where can you find more questions on antibiotic resistance?

  In the revision workbook