Biology Lab: Microbes in the Environment
Explore the unseen world of microbes and their vital roles in soil, water, and air. This interactive game will help you sort microbes by their habitat and match them with their ecological functions.
Help & Instructions
â–¼- Microbe Habitats: Drag and drop the microbe names into the correct environmental category (Soil, Water, or Air).
- Microbe Functions: Match the microbe names with their primary ecological functions.
- Use the hint button if you need help with a puzzle.
- Try different challenges to reinforce your knowledge.
- Identify common microbes found in soil, water, and air.
- Understand the ecological roles of microbes in these environments.
- Differentiate between beneficial and harmful microbes.
- Appreciate the importance of microbes in biogeochemical cycles.
Microbe Habitats: Sort by Environment
Drag each microbe into the correct habitat area.
Microbe Functions: Match the Roles
Match each microbe with its primary ecological function.
**Microbes**, or microorganisms, are ubiquitous and play fundamental roles in all ecosystems. The types of microbes and their functions vary greatly depending on their environment. Understanding their distribution in soil, water, and air is key to appreciating their impact on the planet's health.
Microbes in Different Habitats
Soil is one of the most biodiverse environments on Earth. Microbes like **bacteria (e.g., Rhizobium)** and **fungi** are crucial for decomposing organic matter and cycling nutrients. They are essential for plant health and soil fertility.
Aquatic environments, from oceans to freshwater lakes, are teeming with microbes. **Algae** and **cyanobacteria** are primary producers that form the base of many food webs. Other bacteria play roles in nutrient cycling and waste decomposition.
While not a primary habitat, air serves as a transport medium for microbes. **Fungal spores** and certain **bacteria** can be found suspended in the air, often carried by dust particles or water droplets. Their presence can be linked to plant diseases, allergies, and the spread of infectious agents.
