Introduction to Microbiology

The term ‘Microbiology’ comes from the Greek word……

-             mikros = 'small'

-         bios = 'life'

-         logia = 'science'

The study of tiny, single celled, microscopic organisms. 

Source: Brock Biology of Microorganisms, 13 ed.

It is so tiny that you cannot able to see by your naked eyes. You must observe it under the light microscope.

What are Microorganisms?

•         Bacteria
•        Archaea
•         Protozoa
•       Fungi including Molds and Yeast
•       Algae
•        Viruses(although viruses do not have an own metabolisms and are therefore no organisms)

                     Source: Brock Biology of Microorganisms, 13 ed.

Question: What comes into your mind when thinking about microbiology?

Where can microorganisms be found?

Microbes are everywhere. They are cosmopolitan. A huge unseen world of living creatures that assist the life processes. Although we consider the smallest forms of life is microorganisms, collectively they composed of the plenty amount of biomass on Earth and carry out many essential chemical reactions for higher organisms. Higher life forms would never have evolved and could not now be sustained if the microorganisms were absent.

The following data of distribution of microorganisms in and on earth are taken from the Brock Biology of Microorganisms, 13 ed.