microbe (microorganism)

Introduction

Organisms that can only be seen with a microscope.

Includes:

• bacteria*
  • rickettsiae
  • spirochetes
• viruses*

*These organisms are considered unique

• genetic material is not surrounded by a nuclear membrane
• mitosis does not occur during replication

Notes

• some fungi
• protozoa
• algae

More general terms

• organism

More specific terms

• diphtheroid

Additional terms

• microbiology