Summary
Studies the roles of microbes in nutrient cycles and the structure of communities.
In depth
Microbes dominate biogeochemical cycles, from nitrification to methanogenesis. Culture-independent methods reveal huge unseen diversity. The microbial loop recycles dissolved organic carbon in oceans.
Microbial communities are assessed by sequencing. Functional redundancy means different species perform the same role. Microbes respond quickly to change.
Example: soil microbes mediate carbon storage in a warming world.
One gram of soil may contain up to 10 billion bacterial cells and thousands of species, and the oceans hold about 10 to the power 30 cells. Microbes drive nitrification, methane production and oxidation, sulfur cycling and carbon fixation. Biofilms are structured communities with cooperation and communication (quorum sensing). The marine microbial loop returns dissolved organic matter to higher levels via bacteria and protists.
Tools are metagenomics, 16S rRNA sequencing, stable isotope probing and single-cell methods. The human microbiome is a microbial ecosystem influenced by diet and antibiotics. Applications include bioremediation, wastewater treatment, and probiotics. Most microbes remain unculturable, a gap known as the great plate count anomaly.
Example: methane-eating archaea and bacteria in marine sediments consume much of the methane before it reaches the atmosphere.
Frequently asked questions
What is Microbial Ecology?
Studies the roles of microbes in nutrient cycles and the structure of communities.
Which area of biology covers Microbial Ecology, and how advanced is it?
Microbial Ecology is one of the 54 topics in Ecology. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Ecology, Ecosystem, Biogeochemical Modelling.
Can you give an example of Microbial Ecology?
Soil microbes include billions of cells per gram.
What should I learn before Microbial Ecology?
Work through the Beginner topics in Ecology first, such as Ecology, Ecosystem, Biotic and Abiotic Factors, then return to Microbial Ecology. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to Microbial Ecology?
The closest topics to Microbial Ecology are Ecology, Ecosystem, Biogeochemical Modelling, Macroecology. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Microbial Ecology?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Microbial Ecology. To practise the whole of Ecology, use the Ecology quiz.
How is Microbial Ecology different from Ecology?
Microbial Ecology: Studies the roles of microbes in nutrient cycles and the structure of communities. Ecology: The study of how organisms interact with each other and with their physical environment. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Microbial Ecology step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Ecology and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Ecology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.