Microorganisms: Harmful or Beneficial?

A protozoan causes a fatal form of meningitis.

• Harmful
• Beneficial

Some algae can suddenly “bloom”, or grow, very quickly. People call this reddish water a red tide. Some algae in a red tide contain poison that can kill fish.

• Harmful
• Beneficial

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-1

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

A fungus is used to make riboflavin, an important vitamin.

• Harmful
• Beneficial

Salmonella and E. Coli can make you sick.  They grow on raw chicken and other
meats, raw eggs, and other raw foods.

• Harmful
• Beneficial

Yeast is used to make dough rise in the bread making process.

• Harmful
• Beneficial

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-7

Some bacteria are able to eat substances like oil.  These bacteria are used to clean up oil spills or gasoline leaks.

• Harmful
• Beneficial

Tags

NGSS.HS-ETS1-3

NGSS.HS-LS2-7

One virus is used to vaccinate people against other viruses.

• Harmful
• Beneficial

Some fungi cause several skin diseases, including athlete’s foot.

• Harmful
• Beneficial

Bacteria cause Tetanus, a serious infectious disease.

• Harmful
• Beneficial

Bacteria are involved in the production of fuel, food, and medication.

• Harmful
• Beneficial