Microorganisms

UNIT 16

MICROORGANISMS

Learning Objectives

After the completion of this lesson, students will be able to:

* understand different types of microorganisms.

* differentiate various microorganisms based on their shape and occurrence.

* know the role of microbes in various fields such as medicine, agriculture, industry and daily life.

* know the effects of harmful microorganisms.

* understand the relationship between man and microbes.

* know the effects of prions and virions on human health.

Introduction

Microorganisms are very small in size that they cannot be seen through naked eye. These organisms can be seen only with the help of a microscope. Therefore, they are also known as microbes. The science that deals with the study of microorganisms is known as microbiology. Microorganisms are found everywhere. They are found in air, water (ponds, lakes, rivers and oceans), soil and even inside our bodies. They remain inactive under unfavourable conditions and become active during favourable conditions. Microorganisms can be studied under five categories. They are: virus, bacteria, fungi, algae and protozoa. Let us study about them in detail.