Where do Microorganisms Live?

Science is a beautiful subject that deals with the study of practical learning with the trial and error method of experimentation. It helps students understand their surroundings in a better way and without fail. The three divisions of science for students are physics, chemistry and biology. In this regard,  Biology is that stream of Science that deals with all kinds of living organisms and their functionality.

Before we delve deeper to find out the answer for, “where do microorganisms live?” Let's get familiar with the fundamentals of microorganisms first. Doing so, we will be better equipped to understand the concept better and relate it in real life scenarios more effectively.

With that being said, let’s proceed to find out more about microorganisms from below!

What are Microbes?

They are tiny organisms which can only be seen under a microscope. Microbes are either multicellular or unicellular. 

In a broader sense, microorganisms can be categorised as friendly microorganisms and harmful organisms. Now, such a distinction is made based on the role they play in our lives and surroundings.

Some of the most common types of microorganisms include bacteria, fungi, algae and protozoa. Contrary to popular belief, viruses are different when compared to other microbes. 

The point of difference lies in how they reproduce and multiply over time. To elaborate, viruses reproduce within the cells of the host organism, which can be a bacterium, plant or animal.

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Fun Fact: The existence of microorganisms was discovered between 1665 and 1683 by Antoni van Leeuwenhoek and Robert Hooke.

Where do Microorganisms Live?

Microorganisms can be found everywhere as they can survive in every type of environment. For instance, they are found in water, air, the body of plants and animals, etc. 

Furthermore, they can sustain in extreme conditions that prevail in deserts, equators, freezing water bodies, etc. and can adapt accordingly. Notably, most microorganisms can survive independently; however, some are parasites. 

Uses of Microorganism 

It is noteworthy that microorganisms that are considered to be friendly, are used for several purposes. Some of the uses are as follows –

1. Preparation of bread, curd, cheese, pickles and cake.

2. Preparation of vaccines and medicines.

3. Production of acetic acid, wine and alcohol. 

4. Nitrogen fixation in soil for increasing soil fertility.

5. Management of organic waste.

In short, friendly microorganisms come in handy to meet several commercial, medical and production requirements. On that note, let’s proceed to find out the harmful impacts of such organisms.

Harmful Impact of Microorganism 

Microorganisms that tend to cause diseases are known as pathogens. The following pointers highlight the adverse impact of such organisms in brief –

1. Spoils food.

2. Degrades leather products, textiles, etc.

The thing about disease-causing microorganisms is that most of them cause diseases that are communicable and can spread rapidly. Mostly air, water, food and physical contact are the standard means to spread diseases caused by microorganisms.

On the other hand, certain diseases are spread through carriers like a housefly, mosquitoes, etc. Check out the table below to gain some insight into some disease-causing pathogens.

Table: Diseases caused by microorganisms in human beings

Other than these, the foot and mouth disease rampant in cattle is also caused by a virus. Similarly, Anthrax is fatal for both human beings and cattle and is caused by bacteria.

Take a quick look at the table below for the common diseases in plants that are caused by pathogens.

Table: Diseases caused by microorganisms in plants

Do you want to learn about microorganisms in detail? Join our live online classes and find answers to questions like – where do microorganisms live, what are their types, uses, etc. 

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