Microorganisms – Useful or Harmful

What are Different Group of Microorganisms?

Mainly microorganisms are classified in five groups: virus, bacteria, fungi, protists and algae. Note should be taken that viruses can multiply only in living hosts.

What are the 7 Major Microorganisms?

The 7 major types of microorganisms are – Bacteria, Archaea, Protozoa, Algae, Fungi, Viruses and Multicellular animal parasites.

Where are Microorganisms Found in Nature?

Microorganisms are ubiquitos in nature. They can be found in soil, water, air etc. Some microorganisms also thrive in exteme conditions such as thermophiles (survive in extreme temperature), acidophiles (survive in acidity), halophiles (survive in salanity), etc.

Can Microorganisms be used as a Medicine?

Yes, in the form of probiotics. Curd is also considered as a form of probiotic that contains a type of bacteria known as Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) which is responsible for the curdling of milk which helps in keeping the gut healthy.

List Two Examples of Fungi Used in Food?

Fungi, known as Saccharomyces cerevisiae is used in the the bakeries to prepare breads and cakes. Mushrooms are also used as a food which possess high nutritional value.

List Five Diseases Caused by Bacteria?

Bacteria are unicellular prokaryotes which are responsible for causing diseases in humans. Some of the diseases caused by them are- Tuberculosis, typhoid, diphtheria, cholera, tetanus, and pneumonia.

List Some Cyanobacteria that are Responsible for Fixing Atmospheric Nitrogen?

Cyanobacteria that are responsible for the atmospheric nitrogen fixation are: Anabaena, Ocillatoria, Nostoc etc.

Which was the First Antibiotic that is Discovered?

The first antibiotic was discovered by Alexander Flemming while he was working on Staphylococci bacteria. A fungus known as Penicillium notatum was found to be inhibiting the growth of this bacteria.

Microorganisms are microscopic life forms that are ubiquitous. They can be unicellular or multicellular and are beneficial to humankind, but they can be harmful as well. Microbes can be beneficial as they play diverse roles in nutrient cycling, food fermentation, antibiotic production, and many more.

On the other hand, they are also responsible for causing diseases in humans and animals, food spoilage, and posing environmental challenges. Microorganism examples are bacteria, protozoa, algae, and fungi.