Glossary
Terms
Bacteria
(Singular: bacterium)
Microscopic
living organisms that can aid in pollution control by metabolizing
organic
matter in sewage, oil spills or other pollutants. However, bacteria in
soil,
water or air can also cause human, animal and plant health problems.(1)
Fungi
(Singular: Fungus) Molds, mildews, yeasts, mushrooms, and
puffballs. A group of organisms lacking in chlorophyll (i.e., are not
photosynthetic) and which are usually non-mobile, filamentous, and
multicellular. Some grow in soil, others attach themselves to decaying
trees and
other plants which they obtain nutrients. Some are pathogens, others
stabilize
sewage and digest composted waste.(1)
Pathogens
Microorganisms that can cause disease in other
organisms or
in humans, animals and plants (e.g., bacteria, viruses, or parasites)
found in
sewage, in runoff from farms or rural areas populated with domestic and
wild
animals, and in water used for swimming. Fish and shellfish contaminated
by
pathogens, or the contaminated water itself, can cause serious
illness.(1)
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Information Sources and
Organizations
Looking for information on Microorganisms? Click on the
following
summary databases to learn more!Looking for articles, reports, or scientific literature on
Microorganisms? Click on the following bibliographic databases to learn
more!Looking for research on Microorganisms? Click on the
following
research databases to learn more!Looking for Organizations that are involved in the issue of
Microorganisms? Click on the following organizations to learn
more! |
