Functions of microorganisms in the microbial ecology include microorganisms as pollutants, microorganisms causing pollutions, microorganisms as indicator of pollution and also microorganisms that may reduce pollution.
Microorganisms as pollutants :
Microorganisms from foodborne/waterborne pathogens and also the massive growth of nonpathogenic microorganisms that may lead to eutrophication.
Microorganisms as a cause of pollution :
Due to the physiological activities of microorganisms and also external sources and it can cause eutrophication.
Microorganisms as an indicator of pollution :
Coliform group of bacteria such as E. coli, Enterobacter aerogenes and Klebsiella pneumoniae can be used to indicate the level of water pollutions.
Microorganisms may reduce pollutions :
Microorganisms such as fungi, bacteria (especially Pseudomonas) can degrade hydrocarbons in oil. Thus it can be used in biodegradation to reduce oil spills in the ocean.
As for applications, microorganisms can be used in bioremediation (includes mycoremediation and phytoremediation) as well as pesticides.
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| Always remember, microbiology is fun! |
I think that is all from me. See you again in next semester guys! Good luck for final exam! Bye ~
