Microbes

Microbes or microorganisms are microscopic organisms that exist as unicellular, multicellular, or cell clusters. They are diverse and can be found in almost every habitat on earth. Microbes include bacteria, viruses, fungi, archaea, protozoa, and algae, collectively known as microflora and microfauna.

Classification

Microbes can be classified into pure and applied microbiology. Pure microbiology includes bacteriology, mycology, protozoology, phycology, virology, parasitology, morphology, and microbial physiology. Applied microbiology includes medical microbiology, pharmaceutical microbiology, industrial microbiology, microbial biotechnology, agricultural microbiology, plant microbiology, soil microbiology, water microbiology, air microbiology, and food microbiology.

Role in the ecosystem

Microbes play a crucial role in the ecosystem. They are involved in biogeochemical cycles, decomposition, food spoilage, biological pest control, climate change, and evolution. They are also essential for human health, and only a small number are pathogenic.

Human health

In human health, microbes can cause infectious diseases but also have beneficial effects on our health. They are used in fermentation to produce yogurt, cheese, sauerkraut, kimchi, and other foods. Some microbes are used in biotechnology for the production of antibiotics, vitamin K, insulin, and vaccines.

See also

• Microbiology
• Pathogen
• Probiotic
• Antibiotic resistance

References

Microbes Resources
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