Microorganisms In Action - SS2 Biology Past Questions and Answers - page 2

A culture refers to the propagation and growth of living organisms, such as microorganisms or cells, in a controlled environment. It involves creating a favorable condition that provides the necessary nutrients, temperature, pH, and other factors required for the organisms to thrive and reproduce. Culturing organisms allows scientists to study their behavior, characteristics, and interactions, as well as to conduct various experiments and tests.

Beneficial effect of microorganisms include:

a)       Nutrient Cycling and Decomposition

b)      Bioremediation

c)       Nitrogen Fixation

d)      Plant Growth Promotion

e)      Production of Pharmaceuticals and Enzymes

f)        Fermentation and Food Production

g)       Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering

h)      Gut Microbiota and Human Health

Harmful effects of microorganisms include:

a)       Disease-causing Pathogens

b)      Foodborne Illnesses

c)       Spoilage of Food and Agricultural Products

d)      Plant Diseases

e)      Environmental Impact

f)        Antibiotic Resistance

In the context of disease transmission, a vector and a pathogen are distinct entities with different roles. A vector is a living organism, such as an insect or animal, that acts as an intermediary in transmitting disease-causing pathogens from one host to another. Vectors acquire the pathogens from infected individuals or reservoirs and then transfer them to susceptible individuals through biting, direct contact, or mechanical transfer. On the other hand, a pathogen refers to the disease-causing microorganism itself, such as a bacterium, virus, parasite, or fungus. Pathogens can invade and replicate within host organisms, causing infections and leading to the development of disease. While vectors facilitate the physical transfer of pathogens, the pathogens themselves are responsible for the actual infection and subsequent disease manifestation in the host.