Biodiversity of Micro-organisms

Biodiversity and classification of micro-organisms

Biodiversity of Micro-organisms

The number and variety of organisms found within a specified geographic region.

Biodiversity (biological + diversity)

Most micro-organisms are too small to be viewed by the naked eye, but there are some which are visible to the naked eye for example Thiomargarita namibiensis.

Micro-organisms (micro = small)

This bacterium, found in the ocean sediments of Namibia, is one of the largest bacteria ever discovered. Cells of Thiomargarita namibiensis are large enough to be visible to the naked eye.

INTRODUCTION

DIVERSITY OF LIFE

VIRUSES, BACTERIA, PROTISTS (ALGAE AND PROTOZOA) AND FUNGI EVOLVED VERY EARLY IN THE HISTORY OF THE EARTH (BEFORE PLANTS AND ANIMALS).

INTRODUCTION – What to learn

Basic structure and general characteristics of 4 groups of organisms VIRUSES BACTERIA PROTISTS FUNGI

Investigations Important role that they play in the environment symbiotic

relationships The effect on the health of other living organisms – One

disease of each group Humans use these organisms for a variety of purposes