Introduction to Microorganisms

Overview

• Microorganisms, also known as microbes, are living organisms that are microscopic and can only be seen with a powerful microscope.
• There are five main types of microorganisms:
  • Fungi
  • Bacteria
  • Viruses
  • Algae
  • Protozoa

Types of Microorganisms

Fungi

• Feed through microscopic threads called hyphae.
• Hyphae release chemicals to break down food, which fungi then digest for nutrients.
• Fungi consume dead animals, bird droppings, manure, fruit, and other once-living materials.

Bacteria

• Single-celled organisms that can be spherical, spiral, or rod-shaped.
• Extremely numerous; more bacteria in the human mouth than people on Earth.
• Ubiquitous; found in air, soil, water, and living organisms.

Viruses

• Single-celled and only survive within the cells of other living organisms.
• Cause diseases such as conjunctivitis, chickenpox, and measles.
• Extremely small; 500 million viruses can fit on the head of a pin.

Algae

• Found globally and crucial for producing much of Earth's oxygen.
• Include about 27,000 different species.

Protozoa

• The term "protozoa" means "little animal" due to their behavior.
• Hunt and gather other microbes for food, behaving like tiny animals.
• Mainly consume bacteria and other organic matter.
• Example: Bioluminescent dinoflagellates in the Indian Ocean.

Fun Facts

• Human bites are highly dangerous because of the bacteria in the mouth.
• The speaker humorously mentions ordering pizza since the bread slices were eaten by fungi.

Conclusion

• Microorganisms play significant roles in various ecosystems and daily life.
• Tune in next time for more interesting facts about the microscopic world!