Microbial Symbioses in Microbiology

Flashcards covering key vocabulary terms related to microbial symbioses and their significance in microbiology.

Symbiosis

An intimate relationship between organisms, often developed through prolonged association and coevolution.

Mutualism

A type of symbiosis where both the microbe and the host benefit from the interaction.

Commensalism

A type of symbiosis where the microbe benefits from living on or in the host, but neither helps nor harms the host.

Parasitism

A type of symbiosis where the microbe benefits at the expense of the host, causing harm.

Resident Microbiota

Microorganisms that constantly live in or on our bodies and recolonize quickly when growth is interrupted.

Transient Microbiota

Microorganisms that are only temporarily found in the human body and may include pathogenic microorganisms.

True Pathogen

An infectious agent that causes disease in virtually any susceptible host.

Opportunistic Pathogen

Potentially infectious agents that rarely cause disease in individuals with healthy immune systems.

Microbiome

The community of microorganisms that inhabit the human body and their collective genetic material.

Mycorrhizae

A mutualistic relationship between fungi and plant roots that enhances nutrient uptake.

Nitrogen Fixation

The process where soil bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into usable forms for other microbes.

Ruminant Digestion

The process in which microbes in the rumen of ruminants like cows break down cellulose.

Insect Symbionts

Bacteria providing essential nutrients to insects, often forming mutualistic or symbiotic relationships.

Functions of Human Gut Microbiome

Includes protection against pathogens, synthesis of vitamins, immune system development, and modulation of the central nervous system.