What is the Difference Between Mycoplasma and Phytoplasma?

Mycoplasma and Phytoplasma are two groups of bacteria that lack a cell wall and are obligate parasites. They belong to the class Mollicutes and share some common features. However, there are significant differences between them:

1. Host: Mycoplasmas are bacterial parasites that infect vertebrate hosts, while phytoplasmas are obligate intracellular parasites of plant phloem tissues and are transmitted via insect vectors.
2. Size: Mycoplasmas are typically smaller, with a size range of 150-250 nm, while phytoplasmas are larger, ranging between 200-800 nm.
3. Transmission: Mycoplasmas can transmit through various modes, while phytoplasmas are transmitted specifically through insect vectors.
4. Cell Membrane: Mycoplasma has a unique cell membrane containing sterols, while phytoplasma has a three-layered lipoprotein membrane.

Both groups of bacteria are small prokaryotic microorganisms, lack a cell wall, have a pleomorphic shape, and contain both DNA and RNA in their small genomes. They were previously thought to be the same, but in 1994, the International Organization for Mycoplasmology renamed the plant-associated group as phytoplasmas.

Comparative Table: Mycoplasma vs Phytoplasma

Here is a table comparing the differences between Mycoplasma and Phytoplasma:

Both Mycoplasma and Phytoplasma are small prokaryotic microorganisms that lack a cell wall, are pleomorphic, and have both DNA and RNA with a small genome. They are also both parasites.