5 Amazing Bugs

The microbial world is not only full of useful bacteria – we humans can't live without them! The Society for Applied Microbiology picks their top five bugs

Alcanivorax borkumensis

Via SfAM - The Society for Applied Microbiology

Alcanivorax borkumensis is the world's most important oil-degrading organism and can actually assist in cleaning up troublesome environmental pollutants like the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

Lactobacillus acidophilus

Via SfAM - The Society for Applied Microbiology

Probiotics including Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bacillus Coagulans & Lactobacillus acidophilus – (yes the ones from the adverts other products are available!!). These organisms aid in human digestion and are also believed by some to repair stomach ulcers and may be useful in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhoea - However, there is little evidence to support many of the health claims made for them

Streptococcus thermophilus

Via SfAM - The Society for Applied Microbiology

The bacteria Streptococcus thermophilus is a starter culture in the manufacturing process of yogurt, cheese and other fermented food products – we love dairy!!

Shewanella

Via SfAM - The Society for Applied Microbiology

One type of funky named bacteria, Shewanella, is a deep-sea bacteria capable of carrying a current. One day these guys may be used as batteries - or so-called microbial fuel cells.

E. Coli

Via SfAM - The Society for Applied Microbiology

E. coli normally provokes thoughts of sickness in most people however it happily lives inside your intestines making Vitamin K for you - as you are unable to. Vitamin K is best known for it's role in helping blood clot and also plays an important role in bone health.