Bacterial biology is the study of bacteria, which are single-celled microorganisms that lack a nucleus. They are classified as prokaryotes and can be found in various environments, including soil, water, and the human body. Bacteria can be beneficial, such as those in the gut microbiome, or harmful, causing diseases like strep throat. Bacteria reproduce primarily through a process called binary fission, where one cell divides into two identical cells. They can exchange genetic material through processes like conjugation, transduction, and transformation, allowing for genetic diversity. Understanding bacterial biology is crucial for fields like medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology.