Classification of Microorganisms
Microorganisms can be classified into five major categories:
Group |
Characteristics |
Examples |
---|---|---|
Viruses |
Acellular, multiply only in living hosts, nucleic acid is covered in a protein coat, non-living outside hosts. |
HIV, Hepatitis virus, Influenza. |
Bacteria |
Unicellular, prokaryotes. |
E. coli, Streptococcus. |
Protists |
Unicellular or multicellular, eukaryotes. |
Amoeba, Paramecium. |
Fungi |
Unicellular or multicellular, eukaryotes. |
Saccharomyces, Rhizopus. |
Algae |
Unicellular or multicellular, eukaryotes. |
Spirulina, Volvox. |
Microorganisms – Useful And Harmful
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.
Table of Content
- What are Microorganisms?
- Classification of Microorganisms
- How can Microbes be Useful to Us?
- Harmful Microorganisms
- Diseases Caused By Microorganisms
- Conclusion – Microorganisms – Useful or Harmful
- FAQs – Microorganisms – Useful or Harmful