Microbes, also known as microorganisms, are tiny living organisms too small to be seen with the naked eye.
These ubiquitous organisms populate diverse environments, including:
- Water
- Soil
- Air
- The human body (and the bodies of other organisms)
Microbes are a diverse group, encompassing:
- Bacteria: Single-celled organisms lacking a nucleus.
- Archaea: Single-celled organisms, similar to bacteria but genetically distinct, often found in extreme environments.
- Fungi: Organisms including yeasts, molds, and mushrooms (though the latter are visible, they are composed of microscopic hyphae).
- Viruses: Acellular entities that require a host cell to replicate.
- Protozoa: Single-celled eukaryotic organisms (cells with a nucleus).
- Algae: Photosynthetic organisms, both single-celled and multicellular.
Microbes play critical roles in various processes, including:
- Decomposition: Breaking down organic matter.
- Nutrient cycling: Transforming nutrients in the environment.
- Fermentation: Producing foods like yogurt, cheese, and bread.
- Human health: Some microbes are beneficial (gut bacteria), while others are pathogenic (disease-causing).
In essence, microbes are the unseen workforce of the planet, essential for maintaining ecological balance and influencing numerous aspects of life.
