Basis of differentiation

Taq polymerase

DNA polymerase

Definition 

Is a thermostable DNA polymerase extracted from thermophiles that creates DNA

Is an enzyme that facilitates DNA replication in the form of nucleic acid molecules

Occurs naturally in 

Thermophilic bacteria Thermus aquaticus

Prokaryotic organisms

Optimal temperature

72°C 

37°C

High temperatures

Active and does not degrade at high temperatures 

Not active at high temperatures because of degradation 

Processivity 

Adds 2–4 kilobases / minute

Adds ~15-20 nucleotides/ second

Application

Used in PCR 

Used to synthesize DNA in prokaryotic cells