Economic Importance of Bacteria (Leaving Cert Biology): Revision Notes
📚 Revision Notes
Economic Importance of Bacteria
| Beneficial bacteria | Harmful bacteria |
|---|---|
| Genetically engineered bacteria (strains of E.coli) make enzymes and hormones | Cause food spoilage |
| Used to make yoghurts and cheese | Pathogenic bacteria cause diseases e.g. TB, strep throat |
| Bacteria in our intestines produce vitamins B and K (This is an example of a mutualistic symbiotic relationship) |
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Symbiosis: two organisms from different species that live in close association, where at least one of them benefits.
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Mutualism: form of symbiosis where both organisms benefit e.g. bacteria in the small intestine of human