14 topics with concise breakdowns: definitions, key facts, and class questions.
This section focuses on the interactions of microorganisms with each other and with the biotic and abiotic environment. Here we examine how microbes survive in soil, water, air, food, and plants, and evaluate their global role in the biogeochemical cycling of elements.
Special emphasis is placed on clinical microbial ecology. We discuss in detail the establishment of the normal human microflora, causes of dysbiosis, and types of microbial relationships (ranging from symbiosis to severe antagonism). The practical module covers sanitary microbiology, the impact of external factors on pathogen survival, and applied methods of their eradication—disinfection, sterilization, asepsis, and antisepsis.
In practical classes and exams, examiners are most strict regarding the composition of microflora by body biotopes, sterilization operating modes, and indicator microorganisms for assessing water and air quality. Without this knowledge, it is impossible to proceed to the study of medical bacteriology and epidemiology.
What does the term "ubiquity" mean in relation to microbes?
Ubiquity means widespread distribution. Microbes are found everywhere: in water, air, soil, on living creatures, and even in space conditions.
Why are there almost no bacteria on the very surface of the soil?
The surface is directly exposed to ultraviolet rays and constant drying, which is lethal to most microbial cells.
Why is artesian water considered practically sterile?
Artesian water lies at great depth. Upon reaching it, it undergoes natural filtration through thick upper soil layers that mechanically trap virtually all microorganisms.
Why is air microflora considered secondary?
Air is not a natural habitat for microbial reproduction. Microbes enter it temporarily from primary environments—soil, water—and are shed from human and animal integuments.
What is the difference between primary and secondary contamination?
Primary contamination occurs during the animal's life due to diseases or stress, when microflora translocates into tissues. Secondary contamination occurs after slaughter—from contact with infected personnel, water, soil, or transport.
What is the essence and significance of mycorrhiza?
Mycorrhiza (fungus root) is a symbiosis between the mycelium of microscopic fungi and the roots of higher plants. The fungi help the plant better absorb nutrients from the soil, which significantly stimulates its growth.
Study the full topic in the «Microbiology» course
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Assignments and quizzes after every topic — just like in a colloquium