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Bacteria is a one-celled organism that is only visible through a microscope. Bacteria live all around us and within us. The air that we breathe and even outer space is filled with bacteria. Bacteria live in the deepest parts of the ocean and deep within the Earth. They are in the soil, in our food, and on plants and animals. Even our bodies are home to many different kinds of bacteria. Our lives are closely intertwined with theirs, and the health of our planet depends very much upon their acitivities. Anywhere there is life, there is a presence of bacteria.
Much of the public experience with bacteria involves diseases. If one asks the public what words would come to mind when they think of bacteria, many would not think of beneficial, useful, and important. Words such as terrifying, microscopic killers, notorious, and deadly would race across one's mind. Many do not know that bacteria play an important role in our environment, industry, and health. If it weren't for bacteria, humans would be drowning in garbage and wastes because bacteria help in the decomposition of dead plants and animal matter. Many of the foods we eat were produced with the help of bacteria. Bacteria are also present in antibiotics and have other medical uses. Click on the left panel to learn more.
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