mikrobien

Mikrobien are microscopic organisms that include bacteria, archaea, fungi, protozoa, algae, and viruses. They inhabit nearly every environment on Earth, from soil and oceans to the surfaces and interiors of plants and animals.

Diversity within mikrobien is immense. They vary in size, metabolism, and cellular organization; many form simple single cells, while others exist as complex communities. Many mikrobien cannot be cultured in the lab, so researchers rely on culture-independent methods such as DNA sequencing.

Habitats and roles. Mikrobien drive essential processes like nutrient cycling, decomposition, and primary production. In soils and waters they mediate carbon and nitrogen cycles; in hosts they form microbiomes that influence development, digestion, and immunity. Some are pathogens, but most are neutral or beneficial.

Human relevance. Mikrobien underpin fermentation, biotechnology, and bioremediation. They shape health through the human microbiome, contribute to food production, and participate in pollutant breakdown.

Research and challenges. Studying mikrobien uses microscopy, culturing, and genome-based methods. Many species remain uncultured, and data interpretation is complex. Antimicrobial resistance is a key concern in clinical contexts.