What is Monera?

Monera is a biological kingdom that includes all prokaryotic organisms like bacteria and cyanobacteria. These organisms are single-celled and lack a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. The kingdom Monera was introduced in the five-kingdom classification system by R.H. Whittaker. It includes organisms that are microscopic, unicellular, and very simple in structure. They play important roles in ecosystems, industries, and even in human health.

Features of Monera:

• Cell Type: Prokaryotic (no true nucleus).
• Cell Structure: Lack membrane-bound organelles like mitochondria, chloroplast, etc.
• DNA: Present in a single circular chromosome.
• Reproduction: Asexual by binary fission, conjugation in some cases.
• Nutrition: Can be autotrophic (photosynthetic/chemosynthetic) or heterotrophic.

Examples of Monera:

• Bacteria: Escherichia coli (E. coli), Streptococcus.
• Cyanobacteria: Nostoc, Anabaena.

Importance of Monera:

• Decomposition: They recycle nutrients in nature.
• Industrial Use: Used in making antibiotics, curd, vinegar, etc.
• Ecological Role: Nitrogen-fixing bacteria improve soil fertility.

Thus, Monera forms the base of many ecosystems and has major applications in science, agriculture, and medicine.