The main microorganisms in and on our bodies are protozoa, algae, fungi, bacteria and viruses. Most microorganisms are beneficial – for example, there are microorganisms in our large intestine that synthesise vitamins and allow them to be absorbed into the bloodstream. However, a tiny minority are pathogens. These pathogens, often called germs or bugs, are a threat to all life forms.
Articles
- Microorganisms – introduction
- Microorganisms – friend or foe?
- Fungi – the good, the bad and the ugly
- Bacteria – good, bad and ugly
- Bacteria
- Viruses
Activities
Image: Medical illustration of multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria, by Jennifer Oosthuizen for the CDC.
