microbiology
scientific study of microorganisms
pathogens
disease producing agents
metabolism (of microotrganism)
ability to utilize nutrients
reproduction (of microorganism)
ability to group together to form colonies or of individual cells to become larger
irritability
response to the environment
motion
ability to move from place to place
protection
including spores, mutation, and development of drug-resistant stains
aerobes
require oxygen for growth
anaerobes
cannot survive in the presence of oxygen
parasites
microorganisms that live on or within another living being
saprophytes
live off the organic remains of dead plants and animals