Microbes in Human Welfare Key Points:

Use of Microbes:

1. Fermentation: Microbes like bacteria and yeast are used in fermentation to produce ethanol, beer, wine, and yogurt.

2. Antibiotics: Microbes are the source of antibiotics like penicillin, vital for treating bacterial infections.

3. Industrial Products: Microbes produce enzymes, bioactive molecules, and chemicals for various industries.

Microbes in Human Welfare Key Points:

Use of Microbes:

4. Bioremediation: Microbes aid in environmental cleaning by breaking down organic pollutants.

5. Sewage Treatment: Microbes are crucial in primary and secondary sewage treatment processes.

Organic Farming:

1. Definition: Organic farming emphasizes natural processes and avoids synthetic chemicals and GMOs.

2. Microbial Biofertilizers: These enhance soil fertility and contain nitrogen-fixing and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria.

3. Composting: Microbes decompose organic waste into nutrient-rich compost, a valuable soil conditioner.

Microbial Biocontrol Agents:

1. Definition: These are microorganisms used to control plant diseases, pests, and weeds in eco-friendly agriculture.

2. Examples: Trichoderma and Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) are common microbial biocontrol agents.

3. Advantages: They are specific to target pests, reducing harm to non-target organisms and minimizing chemical pollution.

Microbes as Biofertilizers:

1. Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria: Rhizobium and Azotobacter fix atmospheric nitrogen for plants, enhancing soil nitrogen.

2. Phosphate-Solubilizing Bacteria: Bacillus and Pseudomonas solubilize phosphates, improving plant growth.

3. Mycorrhizal Fungi: They form mutualistic associations with plant roots, enhancing nutrient and water absorption.